Ladakh Activist Sonam Wangchuk Detained Under National Security Act Amid Protests for Sixth Schedule
Renowned education reformer and activist Sonam Wangchuk has been detained under the National Security Act (NSA), 1980, following protests in Leh. Since the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019, Ladakh civil society groups, led by Wangchuk, have been demanding Statehood and inclusion under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution to protect the region's fragile ecology and tribal identity. The detention occurred after a 'foot march' from Leh to Delhi. The government had previously formed a high-powered committee to discuss these demands, but activists claim the dialogue has been ineffective in addressing their core concerns regarding environmental protection.
Key Points
- The Sixth Schedule provides for the administration of tribal areas through Autonomous District Councils (ADCs) with legislative and judicial powers.
- Activists fear that without constitutional safeguards, Ladakh's environment will be exploited by large-scale industrial and solar projects.
- Wangchuk's detention under the NSA has sparked criticism regarding the suppression of peaceful democratic protests.
- The protest movement seeks to protect the 'fragile ecology' of the Himalayas from unplanned commercialization and external influence.
Exam Facts
- Relevant Law: National Security Act (NSA), 1980.
- Constitutional Provision: Sixth Schedule (Article 244).
- Awards: Sonam Wangchuk won the Ramon Magsaysay Award in 2018.
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