Sonam Wangchuk Released from Jail: Health Checkup and Continued Protests in Ladakh
Sonam Wangchuk, a prominent environmental activist, has been released from Jodhpur Central Jail after the government revoked the National Security Act charges against him. His wife shared their joy on social media, highlighting their newfound freedom to communicate. Following his release, Wangchuk was taken for a health checkup, with plans for continued monitoring. Despite his release, protests in Ladakh are set to continue, as activists demand the government guarantee their rights. This article delves into the circumstances surrounding his arrest and the ongoing movement in Ladakh.
| Mar 15, 2026, 15:58 IST
Release of Environmental Activist Sonam Wangchuk
On Saturday, March 14, renowned environmental activist Sonam Wangchuk was released from Jodhpur Central Jail. The central government issued an order to revoke the National Security Act charges against him. Following his release, his wife, Gitanjali J. Angmo, expressed her joy on social media, sharing that after months of limited one-hour visits, they can now converse freely without restrictions.
Hospitalization for Health Checkup
After his release, Sonam Wangchuk was taken to a reputable hospital for a health assessment. His wife mentioned that, based on their family doctor’s advice, he will be monitored by medical professionals for the next 36 hours. Gitanjali personally completed all legal formalities in Jodhpur for his release. Rajya Sabha MP Vivek Tankha also expressed happiness over Wangchuk's release, calling him a true nationalist and a symbol in the fight against climate change.
Background of Wangchuk's Arrest
Sonam Wangchuk was detained on September 26, 2025, while he was heading to a press conference advocating for Ladakh to be granted full statehood and included in the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution. Violence erupted during protests in Leh, resulting in injuries to several individuals. Subsequently, the administration imposed the NSA on him to maintain public order. The Home Ministry has stated that the decision to release him was made to promote peace and mutual trust in Ladakh.
Upcoming Protests in Ladakh
Despite Sonam Wangchuk's release, the movement among the people of Ladakh is far from over. The Kargil Democratic Alliance has announced that scheduled protests will continue across Ladakh on March 16. Protesters claim that the Home Ministry is delaying the guarantee of rights for Ladakh, prompting them to take to the streets once again to voice their demands.
Social Media Reaction
After a long time had a free flowing chat with @Wangchuk66 without glancing at the scary clock every now and then to make the most of the fleeting 60 minutes as in jail!
— Gitanjali J Angmo (@GitanjaliAngmo) March 15, 2026
Taking him for a health checkup as per the strong recommendations of our family doctor. He will be under… pic.twitter.com/I4IKOUsoV9