Sonam Wangchuk Released After Six Months in Jail: Here’s Why He Was Arrested

Climate activist and education reformer Sonam Wangchuk was released from Jodhpur Central Jail after spending nearly six months in jail.

The Government of India cancelled his detention under the National Security Act. The government said the step was taken to help bring peace and dialogue in Ladakh.

Why Was Sonam Wangchuk Arrested?

Wangchuk was detained on September 26, 2025 during protests in Ladakh. He had been leading a movement demanding statehood for Ladakh and protection under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution of India. This provision gives special protection for land, jobs and culture in tribal areas.

What Happened During the Protests?

In September 2025, protests in Leh turned violent. Four people died and more than 45 people were injured, including 22 police personnel. The government accused Wangchuk of encouraging the protests through his speeches.

Because of this, authorities detained him under the National Security Act, a law that allows detention without trial for up to one year.

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Supreme Court Case

Wangchuk’s wife Gitanjali Angmo challenged the detention in the Supreme Court of India. During the hearing, the court reportedly questioned the government’s evidence and said authorities might be interpreting his speeches too strongly.

Why the Government Released Him

The Ministry of Home Affairs said Wangchuk had already spent almost half of the maximum detention period allowed under the law. The government also said it wants to restart talks with Ladakh leaders through a special committee.

What Wangchuk Said After Release

After being released around 1:30 PM, Wangchuk said the movement for Ladakh will continue. In a message on social media, he said the future requires “clarity, unity and sincere dialogue"