New Delhi: Delhi Police detained several individuals on Sunday outside Ladakh Bhawan, where noted climate activist Sonam Wangchuk has been conducting an indefinite hunger strike since October 6. The protest advocates for Ladakh’s inclusion in the Sixth Schedule of the Indian Constitution.
Contrary to initial reports, Deputy Commissioner of Police (New Delhi) Devesh Mahla clarified that Wangchuk was not among those detained. “We have detained some students from outside the Ladakh Bhawan. Sonam Wangchuk is not among them,” Mahla stated.
In a video message, Wangchuk criticized the detentions and questioned the continuous enforcement of Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), which prohibits unauthorized gatherings in New Delhi. “Many people came here today to observe a silent protest. It is really sad that they were detained by Delhi Police. It’s unfortunate that in the world’s largest democracy, we can’t even hold a silent protest,” he said.
He added, “We have been told that Section 163 has been enforced. It’s disheartening that such a restriction is imposed year-round in the mother of democracy. This section is usually enforced temporarily where there’s a chance of law and order disruption.”
Wangchuk called the situation “a blot on our democracy” and urged the courts to take notice. He also shared videos on social media showing supporters being detained.
A senior police officer explained that the protesters lacked permission to assemble outside Ladakh Bhawan, where Section 163 is in effect. “They have filed an application to hold a protest at Jantar Mantar, which is under consideration. They are not allowed to protest at any other site. We have detained a few people, who will be released soon,” the officer said.
Previously, Wangchuk and his supporters were detained by Delhi Police at the Singhu border on September 30 and released on October 2. The group seeks a meeting with top government officials, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, to discuss their demands.
The activists are calling for statehood for Ladakh, its inclusion in the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution, the establishment of a public service commission for the region, and separate Lok Sabha seats for Leh and Kargil districts. The Sixth Schedule provides for the administration of tribal areas through autonomous councils with legislative, judicial, executive, and financial powers in certain northeastern states.
The march to Delhi was organized by the Leh Apex Body and the Kargil Democratic Alliance, which have been advocating for these demands over the past four years.
