New Delhi

The Centre on Saturday revoked with immediate effect the detention of climate activist Sonam Wangchuk under the National Security Act (NSA), nearly six months after he was arrested following violent protests in Leh that left four people dead.

The decision, which the government said was aimed at fostering peace in Ladakh, came days after the Supreme Court of India on Tuesday adjourned the hearing on a plea filed by Wangchuk’s wife, Gitanjali J Angmo, challenging his detention to March 17.

Wangchuk was detained on September 26, 2025, two days after protests over demands for statehood for Ladakh and its inclusion under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution of India rocked Leh. More than 45 people, including 22 police personnel, were injured in the unrest.

He was held under the NSA on the orders of the Leh district magistrate to “maintain public order” and was later transferred to a prison in Jodhpur.

In an official statement, the government reiterated its commitment to creating an environment of peace, stability and mutual trust in Ladakh to facilitate constructive and meaningful dialogue with all stakeholders.

“In furtherance of this objective, and after due consideration, the Government has decided to revoke the detention of Sonam Wangchuk with immediate effect by exercising the powers available under the National Security Act,” the statement said.

According to the government, Wangchuk had already undergone nearly half of the maximum detention period allowed under the law.

It said the administration has been engaging with stakeholders and community leaders in Ladakh to address the aspirations and concerns of the people of the region.

The government added that the prevailing atmosphere of strikes and protests had affected the peace-loving character of the region and impacted several sections of society, including students, job aspirants, businesses, tour operators and tourists, as well as the local economy.

Reiterating its commitment to provide necessary safeguards for Ladakh, the government expressed hope that issues concerning the region would be resolved through constructive dialogue, including through the mechanism of the High-Powered Committee chaired by Minister of State Nityanand Rai.

Two days earlier, Wangchuk had posted on the social media platform X that securing a just future for Ladakh would require sincere dialogue.

“Our struggle has always been for Ladakh’s protection, dignity, and long-term wellbeing and shall continue to be,” he wrote.

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During a February 4 meeting of the High-Powered Committee, two prominent Ladakh groups — the Leh Apex Body (LAB) and the Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA) — had demanded Wangchuk’s release along with other key demands related to the region’s governance and safeguards.