Ladakh police have initiated an investigation into Sonam Wangchuk, a prominent activist, for suspected links with Pakistan. The probe follows the arrest of a Pakistani intelligence operative who reportedly disseminated videos of Wangchuk’s protests to various organizations across the border. Ladakh’s Director General of Police, S D Singh Jamwal, revealed this information on Saturday during a press briefing.
Wangchuk has gained notoriety as a key figure in the agitation for statehood and the extension of the Sixth Schedule to the Union Territory of Ladakh. Following violence that occurred last Wednesday, which claimed four lives and left many others injured, Jamwal described him as the major instigator behind the unrest.
Authorities detained Wangchuk under the National Security Act and moved him to a jail in Jodhpur, Rajasthan. Jamwal highlighted that the investigation progress cannot be fully disclosed at this time. However, he emphasized the significance of Wangchuk’s previous statements, pointing out that his speeches resonated with themes like the Arab Spring and socio-political unrest in countries like Nepal, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka.
“The findings in the investigation suggest that Wangchuk appears to have a distinct agenda. We are also examining potential foreign funding violations under the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act (FCRA),” Jamwal stated. He confirmed that a person of interest (PIO) has been identified, who allegedly reported back to Pakistan, sharing protest footage.
Jamwal expressed concerns regarding some of Wangchuk’s international activities, describing them as suspicious. He noted, “Wangchuk attended a gathering organized by The Dawn in Pakistan and has traveled to Bangladesh.” These engagements raised red flags during the ongoing investigation.
The agitation, driven predominantly by Wangchuk and supported by groups such as the Leh Apex Body and Kargil Democratic Alliance, has aimed for greater autonomy and civil rights for the people of Ladakh. Despite ongoing dialogues initiated by the Centre, Jamwal asserted that Wangchuk attempted to disrupt meaningful conversations between central officials and local representatives.
The police chief elaborated on how just before an informal meeting scheduled for September 25, Wangchuk orchestrated a hunger strike that spread further aggravation. “Wangchuk made a conscious effort to undermine the negotiations and deteriorate the peaceful discourse through inciteful speeches and provocative videos, ultimately leading to tragic confrontations and loss of life,” he lamented.
In response to remarks made by Jammu and Kashmir’s Lieutenant Governor, Kavinder Gupta, regarding a potential foreign conspiracy linked to the violent incidents, Jamwal disclosed that three Nepalese citizens sought medical attention for gunshot wounds during the chaos. “We’ve detained around 50 individuals concerning the violence, with six suspected to be key ringleaders amid our ongoing investigations,” he added.
Jamwal underlined that Wangchuk’s role as the primary instigator justifies his detainment in an external prison. The investigation seeks to ensure accountability and uphold public safety in what has been a tumultuous time for the people of Ladakh.
As the nation watches closely, the Ladakh police continue to delve deeper into allegations against prominent figures like Wangchuk, ensuring that justice prevails amidst growing tensions.
