The government on Saturday announced to revoke the detention of climate activist Sonam Wangchuk with immediate effect, exercising powers available under the National Security Act (NSA). Wangchuk was detained on September 26, 2025, under the provisions of the NSA, following violent protests in Leh. He was held in Jodhpur Central Jail in Rajasthan.
Announcing the decision, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) stated that the government remains committed to fostering an environment of peace, stability, and mutual trust in Ladakh to facilitate constructive dialogue with all stakeholders. The statement noted that the decision to revoke Wangchuk's detention has been taken in furtherance of this "objective and after due consideration.”
Earlier, on February 26, the Supreme Court had scheduled the final hearing on a plea challenging Wangchuk's detention under the NSA for March 10. The apex court had also questioned whether his speeches and social media posts could legitimately be interpreted as provocative and linked to the week-long Leh prests of September 24, 2025.
The government has decided to revoke the detention of Sonam Wangchuk with immediate effect by exercising the powers available under the National Security Act: Ministry of Home Affairs
— ANI (@ANI) March 14, 2026
(File pic of climate activist Sonam Wangchuk) pic.twitter.com/QaWpy1sa0s
Why Was He Detained Under National Security Act?
During the violent protests in Leh, that erupted over demands for statehood and protections under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution, Wangchuk was accused of inciting unrest and misleading the public. He had also been on a hunger strike since September 10, 2025. Former Leh DM, Santosh Sukhadeve had said that the detention order of Wangchuk was passed after due consideration of all the material placed before him. He stated that the evidence pointed out that Wangchuk was "indulging in activities prejudicial to national security."
He was accused of being the "chief provocateur" and "ring-leader" behind violent protests in Leh that resulted in the deaths of four people and over 160 injuries. Additional Solicitor General KM Nataraj, who represented the Centre, in the Supreme Court hearings stated that Wangchuk instigated youth to hold agitations like those in Nepal, Bangladesh, and the Arab Spring. The MHA had also cancelled the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act license of his NGO, SECMOL, alleging the acceptance and violations of "dubious" foreign funds.
What Is NSA?
The National Security Act (NSA) of 1980 is a law that allows the central or state government to detain individuals considered a threat to national security, public order, and maintenance of essential supplies and services. Its purpose is preventive detention, aiming to prevent harm before it occurs. The NSA Act gives authorities power to detain individuals without trial, typically for up to 12 months.