Ladakhi education reformer and climate activist Sonam Wangchuk, currently detained under the National Security Act (NSA), has demanded an independent judicial inquiry into the killing of four people, including an ex-serviceman, during protests in Leh on September 24. The protests, which turned violent, were part of the ongoing movement seeking restoration of statehood for Ladakh and implementation of the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution.

Wangchuk’s message was conveyed from Jodhpur Central Jail, where he is being held, through his brother Ka Tsetan Dorjey Ley and lawyer Mustafa Haji, who met him on Saturday. In his statement, Wangchuk made it clear that unless an independent probe is launched, he is willing to remain in jail.

He said, "Unless an independent inquiry is ordered, I am prepared to stay in jail."

A Ramon Magsaysay awardee known for his contributions to education and environmental sustainability in the Himalayan region, Wangchuk also expressed his full support for the Leh Apex Body and the Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA), which are spearheading the demands for constitutional safeguards and statehood.

"Whatever actions the Apex Body takes in the interest of Ladakh, I am with them wholeheartedly," he said.

Wangchuk also appealed to the people of Ladakh to maintain peace, unity, and pursue their goals through non-violent means in the spirit of Mahatma Gandhi. He thanked everyone for their support and prayers and extended his condolences to the families of those who lost their lives in the protests. He also expressed concern for those who were injured or remain under detention.

Both the Leh Apex Body and the KDA had earlier withdrawn from talks scheduled with the Ministry of Home Affairs on October 6, demanding a judicial probe into the deaths and the immediate release of all those detained, including Wangchuk.

Meanwhile, the Supreme Court is set to hear a petition on Monday filed by Wangchuk’s wife, Gitanjali J Angmo, challenging his detention under the NSA. The plea describes the arrest as illegal and unconstitutional and seeks his immediate release.