Arvind Kejriwal Defends Sonam Wangchuk Amid Ladakh Statehood Controversy

The unrest in Leh originated from persistent demands for statehood. (File)

New Delhi:

On Friday, Arvind Kejriwal, the national convenor of Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), strongly criticized the accusations made against Sonam Wangchuk. He took aim at the Central government, claiming it was deploying its "entire machinery" to harass someone who was genuinely concerned about the nation's development.

In a social media post on X, Kejriwal expressed, "Read about Sonam Wangchuk. The person who thinks about the country, thinks about education, makes new inventions, is being harassed by the entire machinery of the central government today under extremely cheap politics."

He further lamented, "It feels extremely sad - how the reins of the country are in the hands of such people. How will such a country progress?"

This statement follows recent unrest in Ladakh, which coincided with a 14-day hunger strike by climate activist Sonam Wangchuk. Wangchuk had been peacefully advocating for these demands for five years, including undertaking a remarkable barefoot journey from Leh to Delhi.

The tensions in Leh arise from enduring demands for statehood and inclusion in the Sixth Schedule. Similar statehood demands have emerged from people in Jammu and Kashmir following the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019. In response to the situation, authorities in Leh have implemented restrictions under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023.

According to the District Magistrate's order, gatherings of five or more individuals are prohibited in the district. Additionally, no processions, rallies, or marches may be conducted without prior written authorization in Leh.

It is noteworthy that the Government of India has been in active dialogue with the Apex Body Leh and the Kargil Democratic Alliance regarding these issues. Multiple meetings have been conducted through formal channels such as the High-Powered Committee (HPC) and its Sub-committee, alongside various informal discussions with regional leaders.

The next High-Powered Committee meeting is scheduled for October 6th, with additional meetings planned with Ladakh's leaders on September 25th and 26th.