Breaking news rocks Ladakh! Mobile internet services have been suspended in Leh following the arrest of renowned climate activist Sonam Wangchuk on September 26, 2025, marking a dramatic escalation in the ongoing statehood protests that have gripped the region. The 59-year-old educator’s detention under the National Security Act has intensified tensions in an already volatile situation.
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Leh Arrest That Sparked Digital Blackout
Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk was arrested Friday by a police party here, two days after violent protests by supporters of the movement for statehood and extension of Sixth Schedule of Constitution left four persons dead and 90 others injured. As a precautionary measure, the Union Territory administration has suspended mobile internet services in the Leh area.
The arrest comes as authorities scramble to control escalating unrest that has transformed peaceful statehood demands into deadly confrontations.
| Crisis Timeline | Events |
|---|---|
| September 24, 2025 | Violent protests erupt in Leh |
| September 25, 2025 | Curfew imposed, casualties mount |
| September 26, 2025 | Sonam Wangchuk arrested under NSA |
| September 26, 2025 | Internet services suspended in Leh |
| Current Status | Wangchuk shifted to Jodhpur jail under 24×7 surveillance |
What Triggered the Violent Protests?
The recent protests in Ladakh, which turned violent on Wednesday (September 24), have been driven by demands for inclusion under the Sixth Schedule of the Indian Constitution and a call for statehood. The demonstrations represent years of growing frustration over Ladakh’s political status since becoming a Union Territory in 2019.
Core Protest Demands:
- Statehood for Ladakh – Full state status with legislative powers
- Sixth Schedule inclusion – Constitutional protection for tribal rights
- Separate service commission – Local employment opportunities
- Two parliamentary seats – Enhanced political representation
For more insights into constitutional provisions and regional demands, check out our governance and policy analysis section.
The Deadly Turn: What Went Wrong?
Youth demand statehood, Sixth Schedule inclusion, a separate service commission, and two parliamentary seats. Hospitalisation of hunger strikers and delayed talks with the Centre led to clashes and arson at Leh’s BJP office. The situation deteriorated rapidly when peaceful demonstrations transformed into violent confrontations.
Escalation Factors:
- Hunger strike aftermath – Health concerns of protesters
- Delayed government response – Frustration over stalled negotiations
- Youth leadership – More aggressive protest tactics
- Political tensions – BJP office targeted in arson
Sonam Wangchuk: The Man Behind the Movement
Ladakhi educator and climate activist Sonam Wangchuk, who has been leading a peaceful agitation for statehood and autonomy for Ladakh for nearly five years, has become the face of the movement. His arrest marks a significant escalation in government response to the protests.
Wangchuk’s Profile:
- Age: 59 years old
- Background: Educator and climate activist
- Role: Prominent voice for the Leh Apex Body (LAB) and the Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA)
- Current Status: Arrested under the National Security Act
Explore more about activism and social movements in our civil society analysis guide.
Understanding the Sixth Schedule Demand
On May 10, after 66 days of protests, demanding statehood and Sixth Schedule-status for Ladakh, the protestors suspended their “climate fast” for the upcoming polls. The Sixth Schedule provides autonomous governance structures for tribal areas, which Ladakhis believe will protect their unique culture and environment.
Why Sixth Schedule Matters:
- Cultural Protection – Safeguards for local traditions
- Environmental Conservation – Protection from exploitative development
- Economic Rights – Control over natural resources
- Self-Governance – Autonomous councils with legislative powers
Government Response and Security Measures
With four people dead and more than 90 injured, forcing authorities to impose curfew, the government has implemented comprehensive security measures including internet shutdown and preventive arrests.
Current Security Arrangements:
- Internet Suspension – Mobile services blocked in Leh
- Curfew Implementation – Movement restrictions in affected areas
- High-Security Detention – Wangchuk kept in high-security cell with round-the-clock CCTV surveillance
- Enhanced Patrolling – Additional security forces deployed
Political Reactions Pour In
Former Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal issued a broader warning against authoritarian practices, drawing historical parallels, “Ravana’s end came. Kans’s end came. Hitler and Mussolini also met their end.” Political leaders across the spectrum have reacted strongly to Wangchuk’s arrest.
Impact on Daily Life and Communication
The internet shutdown has severely impacted daily life in Leh, affecting:
- Business Operations – Digital transactions disrupted
- Educational Activities – Online classes suspended
- Healthcare Services – Telemedicine services affected
- Media Coverage – Limited information flow
For official government updates and policies, visit the Ministry of Home Affairs website.
The Bottom Line: A Region in Crisis
The arrest of Sonam Wangchuk and subsequent internet shutdown represents a critical juncture in Ladakh’s struggle for political autonomy. With four lives lost and tensions running high, the situation demands urgent dialogue between protesters and the central government to prevent further escalation.
What’s your take on this unfolding crisis? Do you think internet shutdowns are justified during civil unrest, or do they violate democratic principles? Share your thoughts and stay updated with our latest political news coverage for more developments in this evolving situation!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why was the internet suspended in Leh after Sonam Wangchuk’s arrest?
A: The internet suspension was implemented as a precautionary measure by the Union Territory administration to prevent further escalation of violence and rumors. This follows a common pattern where authorities shut down digital communications during periods of civil unrest to maintain law and order, though critics argue it violates citizens’ digital rights.
Q: What are the main demands of the Ladakh protesters that led to this crisis?
A: The protesters have four core demands: (1) Statehood for Ladakh with full legislative powers, (2) inclusion under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution for tribal protection, (3) establishment of a separate service commission to address local unemployment, and (4) allocation of two parliamentary seats for better political representation. These demands stem from concerns about preserving Ladakhi culture and ensuring local participation in governance.
