Ladakh Protests: 'What Good Is My Win If Ladakh Loses?' Sonam Wangchuk After Release From Jail Sonam Wangchuk, a Ladakhi innovator-activist, emerged from Jodhpur Central Jail on Saturday after the Indian government revoked his detention under the National Security Act (NSA). The 59-year-old had spent nearly 170 days in custody, charged under the preventive detention law following his protests for Ladakh’s statehood and Sixth Schedule protections. His release came as the Centre abandoned its earlier stance, marking a shift in the ongoing dispute over Ladakh’s political status. Wangchuk described his release as a “win,” but emphasized that it would only hold value if Ladakh’s broader demands are met. “What good is my win if the causes we represent for Ladakh do not win?” he questioned, calling for a “win-win-win” outcome for Ladakh, the Centre, and India’s global image. The activist had been arrested last year after authorities accused him of inciting unrest in Leh, where violence left four people dead and many injured. His detention was initially justified under the NSA, which allows preventive arrests for perceived threats to national security. The government’s decision to revoke his detention came days before the Supreme Court was set to hear a petition challenging his imprisonment. Wangchuk recounted his ordeal, stating he was “bundled and thrown into jail” without communication with his family or legal team for nearly ten days. He described the experience as “nothing less than a non-fiction thriller,” though he noted that jail staff were “nice and kind” and that his time in isolation allowed for reflection. Wangchuk framed the government’s move as a “major positive,” suggesting that misunderstandings and linguistic gaps led to his wrongful detention.#supreme_court #ladakh #ladakh #national_security_act #sonam_wangchuk #jodhpur_central_jail
Ladakhi Activist Sonam Wangchuk Details Harsh Detention Conditions Ladakhi activist Sonam Wangchuk described his detention under the National Security Act as a traumatic experience, stating he was “bundled and thrown into jail” without communication with his legal team or family for nearly ten days. Released from Jodhpur Central Jail on March 14, 2026, Wangchuk attributed his release to the Union Ministry of Home Affairs revoking his 170-day detention “with immediate effect.” His arrest followed police action against his protests demanding Statehood and Sixth Schedule status for Ladakh, a Union Territory. In his first public remarks after release, Wangchuk emphasized the need for flexibility from both the government and protesters. “Talks are a give and take process; both sides have to be flexible and considerate,” he said, warning that prolonged dialogue would hinder meaningful progress. He criticized the government’s handling of the situation, claiming that even individuals who donated blood were detained, with two people still facing imprisonment. Wangchuk also highlighted the broader impact of the protests, noting that dozens of local residents, including his supporters, were arrested in Leh during violent clashes in September 2025. He described the government’s eventual concessions as a result of his legal standing, stating, “The advances from the government were possible due to our status in the court.” Despite the detention, he expressed willingness to face further imprisonment, saying, “I was well prepared to spend 12 months in jail.” He attributed his arrest to misunderstandings within the hierarchy, particularly linguistic misinterpretations that led authorities to believe he was acting against the state’s interests.#ladakh #ladakh #union_ministry_of_home_affairs #national_security_act #sonam_wangchuk #jodhpur_central_jail
LPG shortage affects the commercial sector, Sonam Wangchuk released from Jodhpur jail, and more: The week in 5 charts The LPG shortage in India, triggered by the ongoing conflict in West Asia, has severely impacted the commercial sector, disrupting operations for hotels, restaurants, and other businesses. Reports indicate that many establishments have reduced their menus or temporarily closed due to the scarcity of cooking gas. Non-domestic LPG consumption has grown significantly, with a 29.1% increase in the packed segment (19 kg cylinders) between January 2025 and January 2026, driven by price reductions. Commercial LPG accounts for 10-13% of total domestic consumption, highlighting its critical role in the economy. The price of a 14.2 kg LPG cylinder rose by ₹60 in major cities as oil companies adjusted for higher energy costs linked to the West Asia crisis. Despite the shortage, commercial LPG distribution has resumed across all states and union territories, with authorities intensifying raids and inspections to combat hoarding and black-market activities. Two Indian vessels carrying LPG from Gulf countries successfully navigated the Strait of Hormuz on March 14, 2026, marking the third such safe passage through the war-torn waterway. Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk was released from Jodhpur Central Jail on March 14, 2026, after the Union Ministry of Home Affairs revoked his 170-day detention under the National Security Act (NSA). Wangchuk, who had been held since September 26, 2025, was detained following police action on protests in Leh that resulted in four civilian deaths and over 90 injuries. The NSA allows for detention without trial, citing threats to national security or public order.#strait_of_hormuz #west_asia #union_ministry_of_home_affairs #jodhpur_jail #national_security_act
