Pakistan Connection Emerges in Ladakh Activist Sonam Wangchuk's Arrest: Security Concerns and Protest Aftermath

Leh:

A Pakistan connection has surfaced in the investigation against Ladakh statehood activist Sonam Wangchuk, who was apprehended yesterday after allegedly provoking a mob that resulted in violent clashes and four protester deaths in Ladakh last Wednesday.

Ladakh Director General of Police (DGP) SD Singh Jamwal highlighted Mr Wangchuk's Pakistan visits during a press conference today. He revealed that the activist had participated in a Dawn event in Pakistan and claimed he was attempting to undermine statehood negotiations with the central government.

He also disclosed the arrest of a Pakistan Intelligence Operative (PIO) connected to Mr Wangchuk's case and evidence suggesting the activist maintained contact with Pakistani individuals.

"We also arrested a Pakistan PIO recently who was communicating with him and reporting back across the border. We have documentation of this. He (Mr Wangchuk) attended a Dawn event in Pakistan. He also traveled to Bangladesh. There are serious questions about his activities," stated DGP Jamwal responding to an NDTV inquiry. Later, speaking with NDTV's Aditya Raj Kaul about the PIO, he added, "We identified someone transmitting information across the border. We've placed that individual under surveillance."

Read: "Shaken Public's Trust": Ex-BJP MP Demands Probe Into Ladakh Violence

Sonam Wangchuk faces charges under the strict National Security Act (NSA), which allows for extended preventive detention without bail possibility. Sources indicate he has been transferred to a facility in Jodhpur, Rajasthan. Authorities have imposed a curfew in Leh and suspended internet services to prevent misinformation from spreading.

Plans are underway, however, to temporarily lift the curfew.

"We've decided to ease the curfew from 1 pm-3 pm in phases. It will be relaxed in the Old City first. In the new area, restrictions will be lifted from 3:30 pm-5:30 pm," explained DGP Jamwal.

Detailing the allegations against Mr Wangchuk, he accused him of inciting violence in Leh on September 24. "Sonam Wangchuk has a history of provocation. He has referenced the Arab Spring, Nepal, and Bangladesh," the senior police official stated.

Further alleging the activist was undermining negotiations with the central government, he added, "This involved certain self-proclaimed environmental activists whose credibility is questionable. They attempted to commandeer the platform, with Sonam Wangchuk being the primary figure who has previously made similar statements and worked to disrupt the process."

An investigation into his alleged foreign funding violations is also progressing. "The FCRA violation is evident; it will be handled by another agency," the DGP concluded.