Ladakh, known for its peace and pristine landscapes, witnessed rare violence this September: four deaths, over 40 injuries (including policemen), and widespread arson. Officials allege this was not spontaneous — but a “Nepal-style” rebellion, carefully planned with foreign money and local mobilisation.
Who is Sonam Wangchuk and why is he under scrutiny?
Sonam Wangchuk, once hailed as the inspiration behind Three Idiots, is now accused of instigating unrest. His NGO SECMOL has had its FCRA licence cancelled for irregular foreign funding. The Home Ministry claims crores were routed through undeclared bank accounts, some transferred into a private company, and foreign donations were received without approval.
What irregularities were found?
👉SECMOL (NGO): FCRA licence cancelled; accused of hiding bank accounts.
👉Himalayan Institute of Alternatives: 7 bank accounts, with crores received domestically and from abroad despite no FCRA registration. Land allotted to it was taken back in 2025.
👉Sheshan Innovations Pvt. Ltd.: Allegedly received ₹6.5 crore from a trust.
👉Personal Accounts: Investigators say Wangchuk operated 9 personal accounts but disclosed only one; foreign inflows and outward remittances worth crores flagged by CBI.
Was the violence linked to politics?
The protests coincided with sensitive dates: just days after Nepal’s anti-establishment movement and shortly before Ladakh’s scheduled talks with the Centre. Authorities argue this timing indicates an attempt to derail dialogue. Wangchuk’s political lineage — his father was a minister in J&K — adds weight to claims that he seeks a leadership role in Ladakh.
What do the protestors want?
Agitators have four demands:
👉Full statehood for Ladakh.
👉Sixth Schedule protection (giving local councils control over land, forests, education and tax).
👉Separate Lok Sabha constituencies for Leh and Kargil.
👉Priority for locals in government jobs.
The government insists it has addressed several demands and was preparing to negotiate further on 6 October, raising the question: why turn violent before talks?
The political fallout
Opposition leaders including Arvind Kejriwal and Rahul Gandhi have accused the Centre of suppressing democracy, calling Ladakh a warning for the entire country. The government counters that foreign powers are exploiting opposition politics to weaken India.
Reference
Discover more from DailyDozes NEWSPAPER
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.