Revocation of Sonam Wangchuk's Detention Under the National Security Act

Sonam Wangchuk, a prominent climate activist and education reformer from Ladakh, was detained under the National Security Act (NSA) on September 26, 2025. His detention followed violent protests in Leh on September 24, where demonstrators demanding statehood for Ladakh clashed with security forces, resulting in four fatalities due to police firing. Authorities claimed Wangchuk was a "chief provocateur" during these protests, which led to his preventive detention aimed at maintaining public order.

Govt revokes Sonam Wangchuk’s detention after almost six monthsIn sudden move, Centre revokes Sonam Wangchuk detention under NSAScroll.inCentre Revokes Sonam Wangchuk’s Detention Under NSA, Climate Activist Sonam Wangchuk To Be ReleasedCentre revokes NSA detention of Sonam Wangchuk after nearly six monthsNewsLaundryGovt revokes Sonam Wangchuk’s detention under National Security Act with immediate effectWION

On March 14, 2026, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) announced the immediate revocation of Wangchuk's detention. The government stated that this decision was made after "due consideration" and was part of its commitment to fostering an environment of peace, stability, and mutual trust in Ladakh. The MHA emphasized the need for constructive dialogue with local stakeholders to address the aspirations and concerns of the region's populace.

Govt revokes Sonam Wangchuk's NSA detention to foster Ladakh dialogueCentre Revokes Sonam Wangchuk's NSA Detention in LadakhCentre revokes detention of Sonam Wangchuk under NSAMehbooba Mufti Criticizes Sonam Wangchuk's NSA DetentionThe StatesmanMHA Revokes Sonam Wangchuk’s NSA Detention After Six MonthsWIONUndemocratic practice from colonial era: Shashi Tharoor urges SC to limit detention as Centre releases Sonam Wangchuk

The MHA reiterated its engagement with community leaders in Ladakh, highlighting that ongoing protests and bandhs had adversely affected various sectors, including education, tourism, and local businesses. The government expressed hope that revoking Wangchuk's detention would facilitate discussions aimed at resolving the region's issues through established mechanisms like the High-Powered Committee.

MHA Revokes Sonam Wangchuk’s NSA Detention After Six Months

The extended detention of Wangchuk had drawn significant criticism from various quarters. Congress MP Shashi Tharoor welcomed the revocation but condemned the prolonged detention, labeling it an "undemocratic practice from the colonial era." Additionally, Mehbooba Mufti, the chief of the Peoples Democratic Party, criticized the application of the NSA against Wangchuk, arguing that it was unwarranted given his contributions to environmental advocacy.

Undemocratic practice from colonial era: Shashi Tharoor urges SC to limit detention as Centre releases Sonam Wangchuk

While the government maintained that Wangchuk's statements during protests posed a threat to public order, the Supreme Court had previously questioned the validity of this interpretation. During hearings, the court suggested that authorities might have over-interpreted Wangchuk's remarks, indicating a potential gap in the justification for his detention.

Govt revokes Sonam Wangchuk’s detention under National Security Act with immediate effect

Following the revocation of his detention, Wangchuk's case remains a focal point for discussions on civil liberties and the application of preventive detention laws in India. The Supreme Court is scheduled to continue hearings on the legality of his detention, which may set important precedents regarding the use of the NSA in similar cases.

Govt revokes Sonam Wangchuk’s detention under National Security Act with immediate effect

• “The statement emphasised that the government remains committed to creating an environment of peace, stability, and mutual trust in Ladakh.” — Ministry of Home Affairs

The Statesman

• “Indefinite detention is an undemocratic practice left over from the colonial era.” — Shashi Tharoor, Congress MP

Undemocratic practice from colonial era: Shashi Tharoor urges SC to limit detention as Centre releases Sonam Wangchuk

• “National Security Act should not have been slapped on Sonam Wangchuk… He did a lot for the environment. It was very wrong to keep him in jail for too long.” — Mehbooba Mufti, PDP Chief

Mehbooba Mufti Criticizes Sonam Wangchuk's NSA Detention