Who is Climate Activist Sonam Wangchuk

Who is Sonam Wangchuk?

Sonam Wangchuk is a renowned engineer and environmentalist from Ladakh, India. He is widely recognised for his pioneering efforts in sustainable development, particularly in water conservation and renewable energy. Wangchuk is the founder of the Students’ Educational and Cultural Movement of Ladakh (SECMOL), an organisation dedicated to improving education for local students while preserving the unique culture and environment of Ladakh.

One of his most notable initiatives is the Ice Stupa project, which involves creating artificial glaciers to store winter water and release it during the summer months. This innovative approach helps combat the region’s water shortages. Wangchuk has gained international acclaim for his dedication to promoting sustainable practices and addressing climate change challenges in fragile ecosystems like Kashmir and Ladakh. His work emphasises the importance of blending traditional knowledge with modern technology to develop effective solutions for local communities.

Utmost Hypocrisy: BJP Slams Congress’ Criticism of Sonam Wangchuk’s Detention

Mr. Wangchuk, along with over 110 people from Ladakh, marched to Delhi to demand that the Union Territory be included in the Sixth Schedule of the Indian Constitution. On Monday, they were arrested at the Delhi border for violating prohibitory orders and were subsequently taken to various police stations.

On October 1, 2024, the Congress Party sharply criticised the Centre over the detention of Mr. Wangchuk and others. Rahul Gandhi, the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, labeled the detention “unacceptable” and said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi would have to listen to the voice of Ladakh.

In response to Congress’ reaction, senior BJP leader Ravi Shankar stated, “I do not know the facts. I need to check the facts.” He further questioned Rahul Gandhi’s stance, asking, “Why does Rahul Gandhi remain silent when cartoonists are arrested in West Bengal or satirists jailed in Tamil Nadu?” The Union Minister also called Gandhi’s criticism of Wangchuk’s detention “hypocrisy in the extreme.”

Sonam Wangchuk’s Final Post Before Detention

Shortly before his detention, Sonam Wangchuk shared a post on social media showing scenes from the Delhi border. In a video, Wangchuk can be seen interacting with police officers and discussing the situation. “As we approach the Capital, it appears we are not being escorted, but detained,” Wangchuk said in his post.

He also highlighted the heavy police presence, noting that “around a thousand police personnel have been deployed at the Capital’s border.” Wangchuk added that he had received numerous reports about security forces being stationed at Delhi’s Ladakh Bhawan and near areas where Ladakhi students reside.