Ladakh leaders demand release of detainees, decry suppression of protests
Leh, March : Leaders from Ladakh have strongly demanded the release of all detainees following the release of climate activist Sonam Wangchuk from Jodhpur jail, describing his detention as part of the Indian government’s suppression of legitimate protests in the occupied territory.
According to Kashmir Media Service, Ladakh Member of Parliament Mohamad Hanifa hailed Wangchuk’s release but stressed that the government must also free other detainees and withdraw cases filed against individuals who participated in peaceful protests. “We have always said that we want a solution to these issues through dialogue,” he said, emphasizing that protest is a constitutional right. He added that demonstrations are the only way for Ladakhi voices to reach the government.
Kargil-based politician and Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA) member Sajjad Kargili also called for the immediate release of Deldan Namgial and Smanla Dorjey, while demanding that charges against other protesters be dropped unconditionally. He warned that the struggle for the legitimate rights of Ladakhis will continue until all demands are met.
The Indian Home Ministry, in a statement, justified the detentions and protests, claiming that the prevailing atmosphere of bandhs and demonstrations had adversely affected the local economy. Hanifa, however, rejected this narrative, stressing that peaceful protest is a fundamental democratic right and the government should resolve grievances through dialogue rather than repression.
