Ladakh’s Director General of Police, S D Singh Jamwal, announced on Saturday that prominent activist Sonam Wangchuk is under investigation for potential links with Pakistani intelligence. This inquiry follows the arrest of a suspected Pakistani intelligence operative who allegedly transmitted videos of Wangchuk’s protests across the border.
Jamwal described Wangchuk as a pivotal figure in the recent unrest in Ladakh, which led to four fatalities and injuries to numerous others. The unrest erupted during protests advocating for statehood for Ladakh and the extension of the Sixth Schedule provisions.
On Friday, authorities detained Wangchuk under the National Security Act and transferred him to a jail in Jodhpur, Rajasthan.
“The specifics of the investigation remain confidential,” said Jamwal. “However, his past public engagements and speeches have raised concerns. Wangchuk has made references to global protest movements, which some view as incendiary.”
Jamwal indicated that Wangchuk’s actions might have been influenced by foreign interests, noting that a Public Information Officer had been reporting from the region and sending footage of the protests to external entities.
Wangchuk has actively participated in protests organized by the Leh Apex Body and Kargil Democratic Alliance, which advocate for statehood and local autonomy. Jamwal alleged that Wangchuk attempted to undermine discussions between Ladakh representatives and the central government.
“Despite the imminent talks scheduled for October 6, Wangchuk continued his hunger strike, selecting a provocative time to escalate tensions,” Jamwal commented. “His actions, including the distribution of unsettling videos, coincided with the unrest that sadly resulted in loss of life.”
Details on Wednesday’s violence revealed the admission of three Nepalese nationals with gunshot wounds to local hospitals, leading Jamwal to highlight potential links to broader conspiracies.
In connection with the unrest, police have arrested around 50 individuals, with several identified as ringleaders, asserting that Wangchuk played a central role in orchestrating the violence. “He remains a significant suspect, currently detained in an outside facility,” said Jamwal.
As investigations continue, concerns over foreign influence on domestic protests remain high. Authorities are examining the connection between Wangchuk’s activism and alleged foreign funding sources, as indicated by Jamwal’s statements about Wangchuk’s previous travels to Pakistan and Bangladesh.
“We must scrutinize the affiliations of individuals who disrupt peace through their agendas. Wangchuk’s recent travels raise eyebrows,” Jamwal asserted.
The Ladakh administration plans to engage with local leaders to restore order and address the region’s demands, which include greater autonomy and representation. Following the violent incidents, the central government approaches future dialogues cautiously, aiming to prevent further escalation.
Jamwal concluded, “It is imperative to maintain a peaceful atmosphere, especially as we navigate the complexities of representation and governance in the region. The situation is still developing, and we are dedicated to uncovering the truth behind the events of Wednesday.”
