On September 26, Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah expressed deep concern over the arrest of climate activist Sonam Wangchuk, calling it ‘unfortunate’. Abdullah accused the BJP-led NDA government of failing to honor its commitments towards the people of Ladakh.
“This arrest is unfortunate. The way the Central government pursued him sinces yesterday, it seemed they would resort to such action,” Abdullah stated while attending the inaugural ceremony of the third Junior Asian Pencak Silat championship. His comments reflect a growing dissatisfaction with the government’s handling of the situation.
Wangchuk, a prominent figure in the movement for Ladakh’s statehood and its recognition under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution, was detained amidst violent protests that led to four fatalities and injuries to over 90 individuals. As of now, the specific charges against him remain unclear.
The Home Ministry accused Wangchuk, a senior member of the Leh Apex Body (LAB), of provoking unrest that escalated to violence, blaming his involvement in the ongoing agitation for the recent turmoil.
Abdullah articulated his frustration, recalling a visit from a Union minister before the Hill council elections in Leh in 2020. This visit came as residents had decided to boycott the elections. “Promises were made to encourage participation in the elections. People overwhelmingly supported the BJP, yet these promises have been broken. This echoes our experience here in Jammu and Kashmir,” he emphasized.
Echoing sentiments of betrayal, Abdullah highlighted the commitments regarding the restoration of Jammu and Kashmir’s statehood following the completion of assembly elections. He voiced concerns over whether voters’ choices were influencing the government’s decisions. “Are we being denied statehood because we didn’t elect the BJP?” he queried.
Abdullah’s frustration resonates with many in the region who feel marginalized. He challenged the government to clarify its stance, stating, “If the BJP’s role is essential for restoring statehood, let them admit it openly.”
Responding to allegations from Leader of Opposition (LoP) in the Jammu and Kashmir assembly, Sunil Sharma, that Abdullah was justifying violence in Ladakh, the Chief Minister rebuffed the notion, claiming Sharma deflects responsibility onto others.
The rising tensions and Wangchuk’s arrest underscore a pivotal moment for Ladakh. As community leaders continue to advocate for statehood, the Central government’s response will likely influence the trajectory of political discourse in the region. Abdullah’s plea for accountability reflects a broader community sentiment seeking recognition and support amidst escalating challenges.
