New Delhi, 14 March/ VOL News Desk/ The central government has taken a major decision by cancelling the detention of Ladakh’s prominent environmental activist Sonam Wangchuk under the National Security Act (NSA). According to officials, this decision was made keeping in view the need to restore normal peace and order in the region and to reduce tensions.
Wangchuk was detained under NSA by the District Magistrate following the situation that allegedly arose in Leh on 26 September 2025. After initial custody, he was transferred to Jodhpur Central Jail.

Government sources said that after reviewing the situation, it was noted that Wangchuk had already spent more than half of the maximum period allowed for precautionary detention under NSA. In view of this, it was decided to cancel his detention so that a conducive environment for dialogue could be created.
It is noteworthy that Wangchuk’s wife, Dr. Geetanjali Angmo, had filed a petition in the Supreme Court challenging the legality of the detention order and demanding his immediate release. The case is being heard by a bench comprising Justice Arvind Kumar and Justice Prasanna B. Varle. It is expected that the remaining legal proceedings in the Supreme Court will continue as per the scheduled timeline.

Sonam Wangchuk is known for his long struggle for sustainable development and environmental protection in the Himalayan region. He has continuously raised his voice for local issues, especially the protection of Ladakh’s unique culture and environment.

The news of Sonam Wangchuk’s release has created a wave of happiness in Ladakh. There is intense excitement among the people over the withdrawal of charges against him and the lifting of NSA detention. However, experts believe that this progress is only one aspect of resolving Ladakh’s issues.

It is clarified that the Leh Apex Body and the Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA) have already announced large-scale protests across Ladakh on 16 March. Political commentators say that the public is linking Sonam Wangchuk’s release with their demands for self-determination and regional rights. Now it remains to be seen what effect the government’s decision will have on the 16 March movement and whether it will pave the way for stability in the region.