Wangchuk says he is ready to engage in dialogue on Ladakh issues
Leh: Leh-based climate activist Sonam Wangchuk, who returned to the region after his release from detention, said he is ready to engage in dialogue on issues linked to Ladakh.
According to Kashmir Media Service, Sonam Wangchuk was taken into custody and lodged in Jodhpur Jail in Rajasthan state, under the draconian National Security Act (NSA), on September 26 last year, two days after massive protests demanding statehood and Sixth Schedule status for Ladakh.
Speaking to the media in Leh, Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir, Wangchuk said he felt positive about returning to the mountains after nearly six months.
“I am feeling very good. After 170 days, coming to these mountains and meeting people, I hope that a new Sun will rise for the cause for which we are working. We are moving forward with hope. We hope that there will be such an atmosphere from all sides, and I would like to thank the people who supported us in this struggle. Looking forward to meeting people,” he said.
Sonam Wanghcuk was released from Jodhpur Central Jail after the government revoked his detention under the National Security Act. He had been in custody since September 26, 2025.
Earlier, reflecting on his detention, he said the period allowed him time for personal reflection. He stated that while there were issues from a justice perspective, he does not want to hold any bitterness and is willing to move forward through discussions.
“In my personal life, I would say it was positive. It was an experience that gave me time to reflect on myself. From a justice perspective, many mistakes were made, many wrongs were done, and these mistakes should never happen to anyone. But the way they were withdrawn, I understand that there is an awareness of those mistakes,” he said. KMS—15A
