Wangchuk returns to Ladakh after NSA revocation, calls for relief to detainees

Sonam Wangchuk returns to Ladakh, advocating for peaceful dialogue and relief for detainees after his NSA revocation.

Returning to Leh after his release from detention, climate activist Sonam Wangchuk on Sunday (March 22, 2026) said the Ladakh movement would remain peaceful and expressed hope for constructive engagement between all stakeholders.

Noting that “a lot went wrong" in Ladakh, Mr. Wangchuk said the focus should now be on correcting past mistakes rather than dwelling on them and called for relief to those still facing legal action in connection with the Ladakh agitation.

Mr. Wangchuk was accorded a grand reception at Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport on Sunday. Members of the Leh Apex Body (LAB) and Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA), and a large number of well-wishers gathered to welcome him at the airport.

He was released recently by the Centre after nearly six months in detention under the National Security Act.

“A new step has been taken, and we are seeing it as a positive one. Although some people say it is about defeat or victory, we do not want to see it that way,” he told reporters.

Mr. Wangchuk said that the situation should not be viewed in terms of victory or defeat but as an opportunity to move forward through mutual cooperation.