Shocking Arrest: Pakistani ‘Person of Interest’ Linked to Sonam Wangchuk, Sending Cross-Border Intel, Reveals Ladakh DGP
The recent surge of violence in Ladakh has shocked residents and officials alike, marking an unprecedented incident in the region’s history. During a press conference on Saturday, Director General of Police (DGP) S.D. Jamwal placed blame on “so-called environmental activists” for hijacking the ongoing struggle for statehood and the implementation of the Sixth Schedule. This assertion follows the detention of prominent climate activist Sonam Wangchuk under the National Security Act; he has since been transported to a jail in Jodhpur.
Jamwal revealed that law enforcement had recently apprehended a Person of Interest from Pakistan, linking him to Wangchuk. This individual allegedly transmitted reports about the activist across the border. Additionally, the police reported that several Nepalese nationals participated in the protests, with some sustaining injuries.
Describing Wangchuk’s influence, Jamwal characterized him as an instigator with a history of controversial public statements, highlighting his involvement in discussions surrounding several countries including Nepal and Sri Lanka. The DGP claimed ongoing investigations into suspected foreign funding, suggesting possible violations of the Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA).
The DGP recounted the grim events of September 24, when violence erupted resulting in the deaths of four individuals during police engagement with protesters. Jamwal noted that injuries were widespread, detailing that around 80 civilians were harmed, including seven who sustained critical injuries. Among these, one girl was airlifted to Delhi for urgent medical care. The unrest also left 17 Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel and 15 police officers injured.
Jamwal elaborated on the situation surrounding Wangchuk’s hunger strike, stating that approximately 5,000 to 6,000 individuals had gathered. While initial participants appeared peaceful, tensions escalated when a faction began to engage in violent acts, including stone-pelting targeting government assets. The police found themselves under siege, compelled to act to protect critical institutions.
The DGP recounted harrowing scenes, such as the severe beating of CRPF soldiers, with one suffering a serious spinal injury. Four women police officers became trapped in a burning government building during the melee. In defense of personnel and property, the police fired back, a decision that resulted in the tragic loss of life.
Jamwal remarked on the background political dynamics, noting the ongoing dialogue between local bodies, such as the Apex Body of Leh and Kargil Democratic Alliance, and the central government regarding statehood and Sixth Schedule demands. He expressed concern that Wangchuk’s actions and those of other activists have undermined these discussions.
The escalation of violence in Ladakh has not only raised questions about local governance but also intensified scrutiny on the methods employed by activists in advocating for change. As investigations unfold, the implications of this turmoil may resonate far beyond the region, highlighting the complexities surrounding statehood struggles in India.
Original Source: https://indianexpress.com/article/india/pakistani-person-interest-arrested-in-touch-sonam-wangchuk-sending-reports-border-ladakh-dgp-10275052/
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Publish Date: 2025-09-28 01:29:00
