New Delhi: The Ladakh administration on Tuesday dismissed allegations of victimisation against Sonam Wangchuk, stating that actions taken against him are based on credible inputs and documented evidence.
In an official statement, authorities called the claims “baseless” and stressed that there is no question of “witch-hunting or smoke screen,” urging that investigations be allowed to proceed impartially.
The administration cited ongoing probes into financial irregularities and foreign currency violations by the Himalayan Institute of Alternatives, Ladakh (HIAL). It noted that HIAL, despite not being a recognised university, has been issuing degrees, potentially endangering students’ futures, and allegedly failed to disclose foreign funds in its financial statements.
The statement also addressed the cancellation of SECMOL’s FCRA registration, citing multiple violations while highlighting that legal avenues remain open for appeal.
Regarding Wangchuk’s recent hunger strike and public statements, the administration accused him of making provocative remarks involving Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh, and of allegedly inciting youth against peaceful methods. It referenced a June 2025 video on his YouTube channel where Wangchuk reportedly spoke of an “Arab Spring”-style revolution and suggested self-immolation as a form of protest.
Authorities criticised his conduct during the Anshan protest, claiming he failed to pacify the crowd and left the venue discreetly as tensions escalated. They also noted that despite the government announcing a meeting with Ladakh leaders, Wangchuk continued his hunger strike, which they described as “irresponsible” and politically motivated.
The administration affirmed that the grounds for Wangchuk’s detention had been duly served and appealed for calm, emphasizing the importance of letting the law take its course. “We are confident that together we will restore normalcy in Leh Township and continue the dialogue process,” the statement said.
Additionally, the statement referenced a September 11, 2025, interview at NDS Park, where Wangchuk allegedly claimed that youth reject peace and Mahatma Gandhi’s methods, stating that people were not afraid of security forces. It also mentioned that prior to the Anshan protest on September 9, 2025, Wangchuk suggested participants wear masks, caps, and hoodies, citing COVID-19, despite no reported spread of the virus in Ladakh.
