Pune, 4 Oct 2025 : Ladakhi students studying in Pune took out a massive protest march on Jangli Maharaj Road on Saturday, condemning the arrest of noted social activist Sonam Wangchuk under the National Security Act (NSA).

Terming the arrest “undemocratic and unjust,” the protesters demanded Wangchuk’s immediate release, stating that silencing voices of dissent went against the spirit of democracy.

The students highlighted that Wangchuk, globally known for his Gandhian philosophy and commitment to sustainable development, has always opposed destructive development projects, not progress itself. They alleged that his arrest was an attempt to tarnish his image and suppress legitimate criticism of government policies.

Providing context to the ongoing agitation in Ladakh, the students said the region home to about three lakh people and 95 tribal communities depends largely on animal husbandry, farming, and tourism. Land use in Ladakh is traditionally managed by local village councils and the Autonomous Hill Development Council.

When Article 370 was abrogated, Ladakh was declared a Union Territory. At that time, the ruling BJP had assured the region of Sixth Schedule protection and statehood status to preserve its distinct culture, traditions, and autonomy. However, protesters claimed that the government had failed to fulfill this promise.

“Sonam Wangchuk has worked tirelessly for us from promoting education to developing artificial glaciers and protecting Ladakh’s fragile ecosystem,” a student protester said. “He is not responsible for any unrest in Ladakh. His arrest is unjust and politically motivated,” they added.

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