Ladakh police removed climate activist Sonam Wangchuk from his protest site in Leh on Wednesday and escorted him home, citing prohibitory orders against public gatherings during the ongoing elections. The police action was taken in compliance with orders issued by the Chief Electoral Officer of Ladakh and the District Magistrate, Leh. The orders prohibit rallies, protests, and other gatherings within Leh Municipality limits. Wangchuk posted a video message appealing to President Droupadi Murmu, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah, Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi, and the Indian people for intervention in Ladakh's political situation. He claimed that the judicial inquiry into September 24 incidents in Leh was progressing slowly, talks on restoring democracy had broken down, and the administration was pushing ahead with elections to install people of its choice. Wangchuk expressed concerns over the proposed election schedule during the coldest and snowiest months in Ladakh, when nearly half the population migrates out. He also warned that peaceful but intense protests could ensue if their concerns were not addressed.
In further developments, Wangchuk alleged that the administration was pushing ahead with council elections to install people of its choice to negotiate on issues concerning democracy and safeguards for Ladakh. He pointed out that weather reports forecast heavy snowfall during the election week, which could disrupt the polls given the harsh winter conditions in several parts of Ladakh. Leaders from Leh and Kargil, including the Member of Parliament, have reportedly come together to appeal to the President, Prime Minister, Home Minister, and Leader of Opposition for intervention.
Ladakh police stated that the preventive action against Wangchuk was taken under the prevailing prohibitory orders to maintain peace and tranquillity and prevent any potential breach of public order. They urged people to comply with restrictions during the Panchayat, Municipal, and Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council (LAHDC) elections and refrain from activities that could disrupt public order.
The ongoing situation in Ladakh continues to raise concerns over democratic rights and the well-being of its citizens amidst the election process. The appeals made by Sonam Wangchuk and other leaders call for attention to address the issues raised and ensure a fair and peaceful election process in the region.