New Delhi, Mar 14 — The Union government on Saturday revoked the detention of climate activist Sonam Wangchuk under the National Security Act, ordering his immediate release after nearly six months in custody.
The Ministry of Home Affairs said the decision was taken after “due consideration” to create conditions for dialogue and stability in Ladakh.
“The Government remains committed to fostering an environment of peace, stability, and mutual trust in Ladakh so as to facilitate constructive and meaningful dialogue with all stakeholders,” the ministry said in a statement.
“In furtherance of this objective, and after due consideration, the Government has decided to revoke the detention of Sonam Wangchuk with immediate effect by exercising the powers available under the National Security Act,” it added.
The decision came while the Supreme Court of India was hearing a habeas corpus petition challenging Wangchuk’s incarceration.
The 58-year-old activist has been lodged at Jodhpur Central Jail since September 26, 2025, after being detained under the NSA following protests in Leh that turned violent, leaving four people dead and more than 160 injured.
The Centre had earlier accused Wangchuk of “instigating” unrest as grounds for detention. During hearings in February, the government told the Supreme Court he could not be released on health grounds, arguing the “health facade was manufactured and synthetic,” and stating he was “fit, hale and hearty” after being medically examined 24 times during confinement.
In its latest statement, however, the government said the move was aimed at ending the “atmosphere of bandhs and protests” in Ladakh and facilitating dialogue with community leaders and other stakeholders.
Wangchuk had said earlier this week that he would continue his activism after release. In a message posted on social media on March 12, he wrote that he had not stepped away from the movement but that it would require “clarity, unity, and sincere dialogue”.
His wife, Gitanjali J. Angmo, had also said he would not pursue agitation after his release but would continue to seek constitutional safeguards for Ladakh through discussions.
The Union government said it has been engaging with community leaders in the region to address the “aspirations and concerns” of the people of Ladakh.