Leh, November 13, 2026: Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk has alleged that he is under house arrest in Ladakh, claiming that around 20–25 police and paramilitary personnel have been deployed outside his residence amid protests over upcoming hill council elections.
Wangchuk, a prominent member of the Leh Apex Body (LAB), said he would legally challenge the restrictions imposed on his movement.
Sonam Wangchuk Claims House Arrest
Wangchuk alleged that security personnel surrounded his residence after police removed him from a protest site on November 11 and escorted him home.
In a video message shared on social media, he claimed that armed personnel and security vehicles had been stationed outside his house.
He questioned how authorities could prevent someone from participating in peaceful demonstrations without formally arresting them.
Protests Over December 4 Elections
The controversy comes amid growing opposition to the Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council elections scheduled for December 4, 2026.
Wangchuk and other regional leaders have demanded that the elections be postponed until March or April 2027.
They argue that extreme winter conditions and seasonal migration could prevent many residents from participating in the voting process.
Ladakh Police Defend Restrictions
Ladakh Police defended their preventive action, stating that it complied with prohibitory orders issued by the Chief Electoral Officer and the District Magistrate of Leh.
Authorities said restrictions on public rallies, protests and gatherings were imposed within Leh Municipality during the election period.
The police maintained that the measures were necessary to enforce existing orders.
Wangchuk Demands Release of Inquiry Report
Wangchuk also raised concerns over delays in releasing the judicial inquiry report into the September 24, 2025 violence in Leh, in which four people were killed.
He demanded greater transparency and accountability regarding the incident.
The activist reiterated calls for statehood and constitutional safeguards for Ladakh, including protections under the Sixth Schedule.
Legal Challenge Planned
Wangchuk said he intends to challenge the restrictions before appropriate legal authorities, including the magistrate, High Court and Supreme Court.
He has urged the administration to remove the restrictions and allow peaceful democratic demonstrations.
The situation remains tense as regional organisations continue opposing the timing of the upcoming elections.
Supreme News Network
