The District Magistrate (DM) of Leh has informed the Supreme Court that Ladakhi ‘climate activist’ Sonam Wangchuk was detained under the National Security Act (NSA), 1980, for allegedly engaging in activities “prejudicial to the security of the State, maintenance of public order, and services essential to the community.”

The statement was made in an affidavit filed before a Supreme Court bench comprising Justices Aravind Kumar and N. V. Anjaria. The affidavit was submitted in response to a petition filed by Wangchuk’s wife, Gitanjali Angmo, challenging his preventive detention under the NSA.

In the affidavit, the Leh DM stated, “The order of detention came to be passed by me after duly considering the material placed before me, as mandated under law, and after arriving at a subjective satisfaction on the circumstances that prevailed within the local limits of the jurisdiction.”

The affidavit further asserted that Wangchuk had been involved in actions deemed prejudicial to public order and state security. “Wangchuk had been indulging in activities prejudicial to the security of the State, maintenance of public order, and services essential to the community, as mentioned in the grounds of detention. I was satisfied and continue to be satisfied with the detention of the detainee,” the magistrate said.

The DM also informed the court that Sonam Wangchuk was detained on 26 September 2025 and “categorically informed both of the factum of his detention under the National Security Act, 1980, as well as the factum of his transfer to Central Jail, Jodhpur, Rajasthan.”

Addressing procedural compliance, the DM stated that the communication of the grounds of detention, as required under Section 8 of the NSA and Article 22 of the Constitution, was duly carried out. “Procedural safeguards under Article 22 as incorporated in Section 8 of the National Security Act, 1980, particularly and the National Security Act in general, have been faithfully and strictly adhered to,” the affidavit added.

The Supreme Court is hearing the petition challenging Wangchuk’s detention with activists and civil society groups demanding his release.

(Source: OpIndia)

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The post “Sonam Wangchuk Indulged In Activities Prejudicial To State Security”: Leh DM Tells Supreme Court appeared first on The Commune.

Sonam Wangchuk – the name of the Ladhaki ‘activist’ has been in the news for some time now, especially after he was arrested under NSA after the Leh protests turned violent.

We had earlier profiled Wangchuk and his background, you can read that here.

In this report, we compile various controversies and allegations concerning activist Sonam Wangchuk, culminating in his arrest in September 2025. It details a pattern of actions and associations that have drawn scrutiny from Indian authorities. The allegations range from violations of financial regulations to connections with organizations and entities perceived as having anti-India agendas.

The report is structured into three parts: specific controversial incidents, funding sources for his non-profits, and his political associations as evidenced by photographs. This compilation presents the case built by authorities and media reports against his activities.

#1 Alleged Links to Pakistani Intelligence

On 27 September 2025, Ladakh’s Director General of Police, Dr. S.D. Jamwal, stated that an investigation had revealed Sonam Wangchuk was in contact with a recently arrested Pakistan Intelligence Operative (PIO). The operative was allegedly relaying information to Pakistan. This serious allegation of a connection with a foreign intelligence agency forms a core part of the case against the activist, suggesting his activities extended beyond environmental and constitutional advocacy and into the realm of national security, leading to a stringent police probe following his arrest.

#2 FCRA Licence Revocation for SECMOL

The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) revoked the Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA) licence of Wangchuk’s non-profit, SECMOL, on 25 September 2025. The cancellation was due to repeated violations of India’s foreign funding laws governing NGOs. This action effectively severed the organization’s legal ability to receive financial contributions from abroad, crippling a major funding channel. The government’s move was based on alleged non-compliance with regulatory frameworks designed to monitor and control foreign donations, marking a significant escalation in the legal pressure on Wangchuk’s institutional work.

#3 Participation in ‘Breathe Pakistan’ Conference

On 6 February 2025, Sonam Wangchuk participated in the ‘Breathe Pakistan’ conference held in Islamabad, organized by Dawn Media. During his address, he praised the Pakistani media house, stating, “In Pakistan, I see Dawn Media is taking that responsibility as a champion of environment. I wish all countries and in my country and media house really take this responsibility like here.” His physical presence in Pakistan and public appreciation for a Pakistani entity amidst ongoing geopolitical tensions with India was viewed with suspicion by Indian authorities and security agencies.

#4 Historical Allegations from the UPA Era

As far back as 28 February 2007, the then-Congress-led UPA government formally accused Sonam Wangchuk of several violations. These included misusing funds received under the FCRA, illegally occupying 200 kanals of land without paying dues, and having alleged anti-national links with China and other foreign entities. The government also accused him of attempting to disturb the social harmony of Ladakh.

These historical charges indicate that concerns over his activities and funding are not new and have been persistent across different political administrations at the national level.

#5 Land Allotment Revoked for HIAL

On 21 August 2025, the Ladakh administration revoked the lease of 1,076 kanals of land in Phywang village that had been granted in 2018 to Wangchuk’s Himalayan Institute of Alternative Learning (HIAL). Deputy Commissioner Leh, Santosh Sukhdeve, cancelled the allotment, stating the land was not utilized for its intended purpose. The primary condition was the establishment of a legally recognized university, which authorities stated had not been created on the site, leading to the cancellation of the long-term lease for non-fulfillment of project commitments.

#6 Controversial Remarks on Goddess Sita

During an interview on 18 March 2024, Sonam Wangchuk made remarks that sparked widespread outrage. He stated that the “Modi government has turned out to be such a Ram who rescued Sita from Ravan but sold her on the open market after that.” The analogy, which used the revered Hindu deities from the Ramayana to critique government policies on Ladakh, was condemned as highly objectionable and disrespectful by many.

Ravan came in disguise of Ravan but modern day Ravans come disguised as environmentalists, journalists, activists etc

This is Sonam Wangchuk whose only agenda is to talk against the Modi Government. This hatred has become so much that now he’s talking shit about Bhagwan Ram pic.twitter.com/hUtRB36BdX

— SUDHIR (@seriousfunnyguy) March 19, 2024

#7 Support from Pakistani Social Media

In March 2024, following the Ladakh administration’s decision to revoke the land allotted to his HIAL project, a coordinated campaign emerged on Pakistani social media platforms. Multiple accounts amplified a narrative portraying Wangchuk as a victim of the Indian government, expressing solidarity with his cause. This support from across the border was cited by critics as evidence that his activism was being leveraged for anti-India propaganda, attempting to internationalize the issue and create a false equivalence between his legal troubles and perceived persecution.

#8 Endorsement of Dan Church Aid

On 26 August 2023, Sonam Wangchuk referred to Dan Church Aid as a “reputed organisation” while alleging that the MHA was leaking his NGO’s details. This endorsement was controversial as Dan Church Aid has been under scrutiny by the Indian government. The Karnataka High Court, in a separate case, had noted that a 2013 MHA communication led the RBI to instruct banks to report any fund transfers from this Denmark-based NGO for clearance before processing, indicating official concerns about its activities in India.

Sonam Wangchuk terms Dan Church Aid, a ‘reputed organisation’
Dan Church Aid is funded by George Soros
Alleges MHA leaking his NGO’s details@Yashfacts28 Educates Phunsukh Wangdu pic.twitter.com/bg3yiznALl

— The Pamphlet (@Pamphlet_in) April 27, 2024

#9 Background and Family Lineage

Contrary to the portrayal of his cinematic analogue “Rancho” in the film 3 Idiots as the son of a poor gardener, Sonam Wangchuk hails from an influential political family. His father, Sonam Wangyal, was a prominent Congress leader who served as a minister in the Jammu and Kashmir government. This disparity between his public image as a grassroots everyman and his actual background as part of the political elite has been used by critics to question the authenticity of his narrative and suggest a calculated projection.

#10 Marriage and Spousal Affiliations

Sonam Wangchuk married American Rebecca Norman in 1996. Norman is an academic affiliated with institutions like the School for International Training (SIT), which has ties to the U.S. State Department and receives funding from the Ford Foundation and Open Society Foundations. She is also a known supporter of U.S. President Joe Biden and a critic of Donald Trump. Critics point to this marriage as a direct personal link to organizations and political circles that are often viewed with suspicion by Indian national security agencies.

In May 2017, Gitanjali, who, according to publicly available information, is now his wife—joined Sonam Wangchuk’s Himalayan Institute of Alternatives, Ladakh (HIAL), relocating to Ladakh to support its establishment.

Funding From Anti-India Organizations

Now let us take a look at who funds his activism.

#1 Funding via Club of Rome-Linked Network

SECMOL, founded by Wangchuk, receives funding through FutureEarth Networks. The founder of FutureEarth, Paul Shrivastava, serves as Co-President of The Club of Rome. This global think tank, established with Rockefeller support, is famously known for its 1971 report “Limits to Growth,” which initiated global debates on climate and overpopulation.

Club of Rome (Thread)

Today we are going to tell you about one of most important think tank of Deep State

We will tell you How agenda of Depopulation arrived

And we will exposed a very prominent Indian who was always the member of The Club and his name will shock you

1/22 pic.twitter.com/IquF39GGY1

— The Chronology (@TheChronology__) December 23, 2024

This connection places Wangchuk’s environmental activism within a network associated with globalist agendas that are often critiqued by nationalist voices for potentially undermining the economic sovereignty of developing nations like India.

#2 Partnership with Ford Foundation-Linked NGO

A partner organization of Wangchuk’s SECMOL is Karuna.org. The US chapter of the Karuna Foundation has direct links to the Ford Foundation. Evonne Chen, the Director of Karuna USA, also concurrently leads the Ford Foundation’s BUILD program. This creates a direct organizational and personnel link between Wangchuk’s operations and the Ford Foundation, an organization that has historically been a subject of scrutiny regarding its influence and funding patterns within India, raising questions about the ultimate objectives of the projects being funded.

#3 Chinese Communist Party Funders

The primary funder of Wangchuk’s initiatives, Future Earth networks, operates a China Hub that is hosted and funded entirely by institutes controlled by the Chinese Communist Party (CPC). These include the China Association for Science and Technology, Sun Yat-sen University, and the Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory. This funding pipeline directly links the financial support for his work to official organs of the Chinese state, a country with which India has a contentious border dispute, including in the Ladakh region.

#4 Rockefeller-Funded Ashoka Fellowship

In 2002, Sonam Wangchuk received an Ashoka Fellowship, a prestigious award for social entrepreneurs. The fellowship program is funded by a consortium of organizations that includes the Skoll Foundation, Schwab Foundation, and the Rockefeller Foundation. This early career endorsement and funding from powerful, Western-backed philanthropic institutions integrated him into a global network of activists and provided him with initial legitimacy and resources, while also creating a record of acceptance of foreign funding that would later be scrutinized.

#5 Political Appointments Under UPA

Following Manmohan Singh becoming Prime Minister in 2004, Sonam Wangchuk was appointed to significant policy-making bodies. He was included in the Drafting Committee of the Ladakh Hill Council Vision Document, Ladakh 2025, and was also made a member of the National Governing Council for Elementary Education under the Ministry of Human Resource Development. These appointments during the Congress-led UPA government demonstrate his established influence and close ties with the political establishment that was in power at the time.

#6 Awards and Ties to International NGOs

Wangchuk has received several international awards with funding ties to major foundations. These include:

1. 2016 Fred M. Packard Award (funded by Rockefeller, Pew, and Packard Foundations)
   
2. 2017 TN Khoshoo Memorial Award (Ford Foundation)
3. 2018 Ramon Magsaysay Award, which critics often associate with networks linked to the CIA and Ford Foundation. His affiliations also extend to LEAD India and the International Association for Ladakh Studies, both of which have received funding from the Ford and Rockefeller foundations, illustrating a deep, long-standing financial ecosystem.

Controversial Connections

Let us now take a look at his controversial connections – Urban Naxal connections.

#1 Association with Anti-national Actor Prakash Raj

On 26 March 2024, actor and vocal government critic Prakash Raj met Wangchuk in Leh to support his hunger strike for Ladakh’s statehood and inclusion in the Sixth Schedule. Later, on September 27, 2025, Raj protested Wangchuk’s arrest, posting their photo with the caption, “You can cage a bird, but you can’t stop it from singing.”

This association highlights Wangchuk’s alignment with prominent urban naxals who are known for their strong opposition to the ruling central government and its policies, further politicizing his activism.

#2 Meeting with AAP MP Sanjay Singh

In October 2024, during a protest at Ladakh Bhavan in Delhi, Wangchuk was met by Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Singh. The meeting occurred as Wangchuk and his volunteers were protesting after being denied permission to demonstrate at Jantar Mantar. This public show of solidarity from a senior leader of a key opposition party directly linked Wangchuk’s Ladakhi demands to the broader political struggle against the ruling BJP, framing his local movement within the context of national opposition politics.

#3 Support from AAP Leaders

On 7 May 2024, Wangchuk received a delegation of Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leaders, including Abhinandita Dayal Mathur and the party’s Ladakh convener Tsering Phuntsog.

The AAP leaders expressed their support for the four-point constitutional demand for Ladakh that Wangchuk was advocating. This meeting further cemented his connections with the AAP, a party in direct political contest with the BJP, and demonstrated a coordinated effort to gain opposition backing for his cause, amplifying its reach and political significance beyond the Ladakh region.

#4 Photo with Muhammad Yunus

On 8 February 2020, Sonam Wangchuk was photographed with Muhammad Yunus, the Bangladeshi microfinance pioneer and Chief Advisor of Bangladesh, at an event at the British High Commission in Dhaka.

Associations with international figures like Yunus, while part of a global activist network, are often scrutinized by security agencies who assess the nature of these connections and the potential for his local movement in Ladakh to be leveraged by international actors for broader geopolitical narratives concerning the South Asian region.

#5 Meeting with Michelle Bachelet and Controversial Comment

In January 2018, Wangchuk met former Chilean President Michelle Bachelet in Santiago. While posting a photo from the event, he made a controversial comparison, noting that a stronger earthquake in Chile killed far fewer people than a weaker one in Haiti, attributing it to better preparedness.

The comment, while seemingly about disaster management, was perceived by some as an indirect critique of India’s development status compared to other nations, using a natural disaster analogy to make a political point about governance and preparedness on an international platform.

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The post ‘Activist’ To Anarchist Sonam Wangchuk: A Chronicle Of Controversies, Allegations, And Arrest appeared first on The Commune.

The Ministry of Home Affairs has revoked the FCRA license of SECMOL (Students Educational and Cultural Movement of Ladakh), citing repeated breaches of the Foreign Contribution Regulation Act, 2010.

Sonam Wangchuk’s NGO has finally had its FCRA license cancelled — a step that should have been taken long ago. Even back in 2007, when BJP was not in power at the Centre or in J&K, the government had flagged several violations by him and made sharp observations. The record speaks… pic.twitter.com/SoKWiNCPNu

— Amit Malviya (@amitmalviya) September 25, 2025

The action comes after Sonam Wangchuk-led protest turned violent in Leh which left 4 people dead and 80 injured.

Simultaneously, the CBI has initiated an investigation into alleged irregularities in foreign funding linked to the institute headed by Sonam Wangchuk.

Sonam Wangchuk’s NGO has received funds from Ford Foundation which is known for indulging in covert operations.

According to officials, the Himalayan Institute of Alternatives Ladakh (HIAL), also founded by Wangchuk, has drawn attention for a steep jump in donations—from around ₹6 crore in FY 2023-24 to over ₹15 crore in the next fiscal. Out of its seven bank accounts, four were reportedly not declared, and the institute allegedly accepted foreign contributions exceeding ₹1.5 crore without mandatory FCRA approval, violating Section 11 of the Act.

SECMOL itself faces similar charges, with six of its nine accounts said to be undisclosed. Another entity, Sheshyon Innovations Private Limited, where Wangchuk serves as a director, is also under scrutiny. Investigators have flagged a ₹6.5 crore transfer from HIAL to this private firm and a sharp fall in its profit margins—from 6.13% to just 1.14% in a year.

The probe further extends to Wangchuk’s personal finances. Sources claim he maintains nine personal bank accounts, of which eight were never disclosed, and that these accounts received substantial foreign inflows. Since 2021, over ₹2.3 crore was allegedly remitted abroad to unidentified recipients, raising concerns of possible money laundering.

Critics within the BJP highlight the contradiction between Wangchuk’s public attacks on corporates and the reality that his ventures have received sizeable CSR funding, including from central PSUs. If these allegations stand, they could damage his credibility and shift the Ladakh agitation from a people’s movement to a case of personal and political opportunism.

Wangchuk established SECMOL in 1988 and launched “Operation New Hope” in 1995. Many of his initiatives have historically drawn support from international organisations such as the Ford Foundation, Tata Trust, Dan Church Aid, and Karuna Trust.

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The post Modi Govt Cancels Foreign Funding License Of Sonam Wangchuk’s NGO SECMOL Which Received Funds From Notorious Ford Foundation appeared first on The Commune.

24 September 2025 saw the “hunger strike” of climate ‘activist’ Sonam Wangchuk turn violent as CRPF vehicle was torched and the BJP office in Ladakh was set ablaze. At least four people were reported dead and around 80 others injured, including nearly half from the police force in the Leh violence, according to official sources. Authorities warned that the death toll may rise as the condition of several injured individuals remains critical. But amid all this, it was pretty clear that these protests did not happen spontaneously, with several indications pointing to the Congress.

Instances Proving Congress Instigated Violence in Leh

While Wangchuk blamed Gen Z, there was more to that statement he made. The Congress seemed to be behind the violence and arson.

Social media behaviour is pointing to the Congress party and seems to cement the claim that it that instigated the Leh violence on 24 September 2025.

Congress Party Press Conference One Day Prior To Violence

A video of the press conference held on 23 September 2025 by the Congress in Ladakh warned of escalation if the BJP government did not address the protestors’ concerns.

The video caption stated, “Smanla Dorje Nurboo expressed deep disappointment at the BJP-led government for “ignoring the people who are sitting on a peaceful hunger strike for 14 days.” He noted that two participants have been hospitalized as their health worsened, yet the government “remains least bothered.” Nurboo criticized the delay in scheduling talks, urging that the dialogue date be advanced. “Earlier, when the council election was boycotted, the high-powered committee meeting was scheduled immediately and a delegation was flown to Delhi. Today, people are dying and the government is turning a deaf ear,” he said. The Ladakh Congress echoed these concerns, warning the BJP to address the protesters’ demands or “face action.” Calling for unity, Nurboo urged citizens to “step out and ask for our rights together” if the government continues to ignore the movement.”

If one carefully notes, it says Nurboo urged “..,citizens to “step out and ask for our rights together” if the government continues to ignore the movement.” – If this is not instigation, what is?

Congress is behind Ladakh Violence! It was pre planned!

At a press meet, Congress councillor Smanla Dorjey Norboo dared the Ladakh admin to “bring more CRPF,” vowed he’d “personally stone” BJP Ladakh office & urged people to march on Sept 24.

Today a mob led by Congress… pic.twitter.com/7CYZtqG6l1

— Pradeep Bhandari(प्रदीप भंडारी) (@pradip103) September 24, 2025

Congress/Supporter Handles Positioning Violence As Gen Z Protest

What was even more interesting is that all those Congress supporting handles prayed for a Nepal-like situation in India were also seen claiming that it was Gen Z behind yesterday’s arson and violence.

The first statement of this came from Wangchuk himself. In a video where he called off the hunger strike, Wangchuk squarely laid the blame of the escalation on “misguided Gen-Z supporters,” claiming their frustration had led to violent acts.

#WATCH | Leh | Activist Sonam Wangchuk says, “Today, on the 15th day of our fast, I am deeply saddened to report that widespread violence and vandalism erupted in Leh city. Several offices and police vehicles were set on fire. Yesterday, two of those who had been on a 35-day fast… pic.twitter.com/uwkYLBxdYY

— ANI (@ANI) September 24, 2025

Following suit, more handles kept repeating the same lie. Here are a few examples.

Interestingly, some Pakistani handles were also pushing the same narrative.

If one searched Gen Z protests Ladakh on X, these are the number of posts, they can find.

The toolkit of Congress IT Cell.
Key word — Gen Z, BJP, Ladakh.
Note — Pakistanis handles joined hand with extension of “illegally occupied” key word. @NIA_India @lg_ladakh – analyse these handles. pic.twitter.com/2asHJFcbW8

— The Hawk Eye (@thehawkeyex) September 24, 2025

These are just some proofs that point to a very strong Congress hand in the violence on 24 September 2025 that turned bloody.

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The post Here Is Proof That Shows Congress Is Behind Leh Violence appeared first on The Commune.

Protests led by activist Sonam Wangchuk escalated into violence on Wednesday, as members of the Leh Apex Body (LAB) youth wing clashed outside the BJP office. The demonstration, initially organized in solidarity with Wangchuk’s ongoing hunger strike, was meant to press for full statehood for Ladakh, Sixth Schedule protection, and separate Lok Sabha seats for Leh and Kargil.

According to police, agitators pelted stones and set fire to the BJP office and a nearby CRPF vehicle. Tear gas and baton charges were deployed to control the situation.

#WATCH | Leh, Ladakh: BJP Office in Leh set on fire during a massive protest by the people of Ladakh demanding statehoothe d and the inclusion of Ladakh under the Sixth Schedule turned into clashes with Police. https://t.co/yQTyrMUK7q pic.twitter.com/x4VqkV8tdd

— ANI (@ANI) September 24, 2025

Wangchuk squarely laid the blame of the escalation on “misguided Gen-Z supporters,” claiming their frustration had led to violent acts.

#WATCH | Leh | Activist Sonam Wangchuk says, “Today, on the 15th day of our fast, I am deeply saddened to report that widespread violence and vandalism erupted in Leh city. Several offices and police vehicles were set on fire. Yesterday, two of those who had been on a 35-day fast… pic.twitter.com/uwkYLBxdYY

— ANI (@ANI) September 24, 2025

Why is Wangchuk Protesting?

Wangchuk has been the public face of widespread protests in Ladakh, arguing that the region has been left without democratic safeguards or adequate representation since it was carved out of Jammu and Kashmir as a Union Territory in 2019. The Home Ministry has announced a new round of talks with Ladakhi leaders scheduled for 6 October 2025.

From Peaceful Protest to Violence: Who is Responsible?

While Wangchuk has framed the movement as a peaceful Gandhian protest, the recent violence has raised questions. In the aftermath, Wangchuk took to social media to suggest that “GenZ” elements within the protest may have been responsible for the arson, distancing his movement from the destructive acts.

What is He Hiding? The Land Allotment Controversy

However, a closer look reveals a more complex picture that may explain the timing and intensity of the protests. The violence comes just weeks after the Ladakh administration cancelled a 135-acre land allotment to Wangchuk’s Himalayan Institute of Alternative Learning (HIAL).

The administration’s order, dated August 21, states the allotment was cancelled because Wangchuk’s institute failed to meet key conditions of the 2018 lease agreement:

• No University Established: The land was allotted to establish an accredited university within one year. Six years later, no university has been built. HIAL applied for university status only in 2022.
• Lapsed Agreement & Unpaid Dues: The allotment officially lapsed in May 2019. The administration alleges Wangchuk has not paid rent for years for land whose current market value is estimated between ₹27-30 crore.
• Local Complaints: The administration acted partly on complaints from local village leaders in Phyang, who alleged violations of land use by HIAL.

Despite the documented non-compliance, Wangchuk has portrayed the cancellation as political “witch-hunting,” claiming it is retaliation for his statehood activism. This narrative has been amplified by Pakistani social media accounts, which have seized the opportunity to support Wangchuk and criticise the Indian government.

(With inputs from OpIndia)

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The post ‘Climate Activist’ Sonam Wangchuk’s Hunger Strike Turns Violent, BJP Office, CRPF Vehicle Torched; Blames Gen-Z While Hiding HIAL Land Defaults appeared first on The Commune.

The Ladakh administration has cancelled the land allotted to Sonam Wangchuk’s Himalayan Institute of Alternatives, Ladakh (HIAL), citing financial defaults and multiple violations.

In 2018, the project was granted nearly 60 hectares of government land in Phyang village on the condition of paying ₹14 crore and completing construction within two years. Officials said that even after seven years, the dues had not been cleared, and the amount payable had mounted to about ₹37 crore. The administration added that HIAL had also failed to obtain recognition from statutory bodies such as the University Grants Commission (UGC) and the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE), leaving students’ degrees and diplomas without legal validity.

At a press conference, Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council (LAHDC) chairman Tashi Gyan stated that several complaints had been received against the organization and were forwarded to the Chief Secretary. An inquiry reportedly found multiple violations, following which the allotment was revoked.

The development has come amid growing controversy around Wangchuk’s activism.

Wangchuk Announces Hunger Strike

Days after the cancellation order, he launched a hunger strike in Leh demanding statehood for Ladakh. On Wednesday (10 September 2025), Sonam Wangchuk launched what critics have called a new gimmick to divert attention from allegations of lease violations and unpaid dues.

“In the first phase, we will sit on 35 days or five weeks of hunger strike. If we survive it, we will follow it with a six-week hunger strike. However, if the Centre resume result-oriented talks on demands of Ladakh, the strike will be called off,” he claimed.

MY DEAR PRIME MINISTER MODI JI!
Have you ever heard of BJP opposing Hindu Bhajans…! That’s what happened in Ladakh.
Please watch & share

DAY 4 OF LADAKH ANSHAN#SaveLadakh #SaveHimlayas #SaveBharat pic.twitter.com/CNg3sFpmGo

— Sonam Wangchuk (@Wangchuk66) September 13, 2025

The timing of his statehood protest coincides with elections to the Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council (LAHDC-L) in Leh district. Alongside the hunger strike, Wangchuk has also stirred controversy with claims that the BJP is opposing ‘Hindu bhajans’ in Ladakh.

Who Is Sonam Wangchuk?

Ladakh-based alleged activist Sonam Wangchuk has often been in the news for his hunger strikes and more recently, he was on a hunger strike demanding Ladakh’s inclusion in the Sixth Schedule of the Indian Constitution for greater autonomy. However, the Delhi Police at that time detained him at the Singhu border (in October 2024.)

Wangchuk, often linked to the character of Rancho from 3 Idiots, comes from an influential political family. His father, Sonam Wangyal, was a Congress minister in J&K. Over the years, he received significant support from foreign organizations such as the Ford Foundation, Tata Trust, and Rockefeller Foundation. His wife, Rebecca Norman, an American educator with links to U.S. institutions, has also been a subject of scrutiny.

Wangchuk held various advisory roles under the Congress-led UPA government and collaborated with international NGOs. His work, including projects like Ice Stupas, gained Western media attention but faced skepticism from locals.

Despite initially supporting the repeal of Article 370, Wangchuk later opposed its aftermath, with Pakistan using his statements against India. His demands now include halting army construction in Ladakh for environmental reasons, a stance that has sparked controversy. Critics question his international affiliations and whether his activism aligns with India’s strategic interests.

In March 2024, he abused Lord Ram and Goddess Sita during an interview with NDTV. While criticizing the Modi government for not fulfilling its promise to include Ladakh in the Sixth Schedule, he compared the government’s actions to Lord Ram rescuing Sita from Ravan but then selling her in the open market. He said, “I see it in the way that they [Central government] turned out to be such Ram who freed Sita from Raavan but didn’t take her home rather they put her on sale in an open market. So like this, they have left Ladakh open for industrialists and mining lobbies without any protection [from the government],” 

He claimed that while Ladakh was freed from one problem, it was left vulnerable to industrialists and mining lobbies without government protection. His remarks drew widespread condemnation on social media for being derogatory toward Hindu deities.

In February 2025, Sonam Wangchuk attended the ‘Breathe Pakistan’ climate conference in Islamabad, organised by Dawn Media, where he spoke on “Glacial Melt: A Sustainable Strategy for the Water Towers of South Asia.” He urged urban populations to adopt simpler lifestyles to ease pressure on fragile mountain ecosystems.

Wangchuk praised Dawn Media for championing environmental issues and expressed hope that Indian media would take similar responsibility, saying, “In Pakistan, I see Dawn Media is taking that responsibility as a champion of environment. I wish all countries and, in my country, and media house really take this responsibility like here.” 

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In a daring late-night operation on September 4, the Indian Army Aviation carried out a high-altitude casualty evacuation mission to rescue two South Korean nationals stranded at Kongmaru La Pass in Ladakh. At 8:05 P.M., the Army received an urgent message requesting evacuation of Hyun Woo Kim, a citizen of South Korea, and his wife, stranded at Kongmaru La Pass in Ladakh at an altitude of over 17,000 feet.

The snow-laden terrain and razor-sharp ridgelines made the mission exceptionally challenging. With no time to lose, the Army Aviation helicopter squadron was mobilised by 8:20 P.M. The task required a precision landing using Night Vision Goggles (NVG) at an unprepared helipad — a feat demanding extraordinary skill and composure from the aircrew.

Braving icy winds, reduced visibility, and near-zero margin for error, the pilots guided their aircraft to the designated spot, touching down at around 9:15 P.M. The swift landing and extraction under such hostile conditions underscored the unmatched training and professionalism of the squadron.

The South Korean couple was quickly airlifted to safety and handed over to medical authorities for immediate treatment. This rescue mission reflects a textbook display of courage, coordination, and precision under extreme duress, highlighting the Army’s readiness to respond to emergencies, even in the harshest of environments.

The daring operation not only reaffirmed the Indian Army’s operational capabilities in high-altitude regions but also carried strong humanitarian undertones, showcasing India’s commitment to aiding foreign nationals in distress.

For the Army Aviation wing, the successful NVG rescue in Ladakh adds another feather to its illustrious record of high-risk missions in some of the world’s most unforgiving terrains. It is worthy to note here that although the Indian Army’s primary role is to safeguard the borders and to give a befitting reply to the nation’s enemies in any critical or warlike situation but the Indian Army is among the first to help stranded citizens in any such situation, irrespective of their nationality.

Notably, at a time when the northern part of India including Uttarakhand, Punjab, Himachal Pradesh and Jammu Kashmir is witnessing floods which have created havoc, the Indian Army is standing shoulder-to-shoulder with the other concerned agencies and is providing critical humanitarian assistance, from delivering food via helicopters and drones, evacuating people and giving them medical assistance.

-IANS

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The post Precision At 17,000 ft: Indian Army Executes High-Risk Night Rescue Of 2 South Korean Nationals In Ladakh appeared first on The Commune.

Sonam Wangchuk has been in the news every now and then. Last we heard; he was fasting unto death. But just a few days ago, that Wangchuk was attending a conference in Pakistan made the news.

Sonam Wangchuk participated in the ‘Breathe Pakistan’ climate conference in Islamabad, an event organized by Dawn Media to raise awareness about environmental challenges.

Fake “Environmentalist” Wangchuk is in #Pakistan to attend global climate conference —part of Dawn Media’s ‘Breathe Pakistan’ intiative, reportedly with funds from QUILL FOUNDATION of TEESTA SETALVAD.

Says people should stay in Cities LEAVING Mountains ALONE!

समझ रहे हो, बिनोद? pic.twitter.com/NxWpPejZzY

— BhikuMhatre (@MumbaichaDon) February 8, 2025

During the panel discussion on “Glacial Melt: A Sustainable Strategy for the Water Towers of South Asia,” Wangchuk reportedly stressed the need for urban populations to adopt simpler lifestyles in order to protect mountain ecosystems. He stated that people in cities should reduce their consumption levels so that those living in mountainous regions could sustain themselves without excessive environmental stress.

He also praised Pakistani media outlet, Dawn Media for taking the lead in addressing climate change and expressed hope that other media organizations, including those in India, would assume similar responsibilities. He said, “In Pakistan, I see Dawn Media is taking that responsibility as a champion of environment. I wish all countries and, in my country, and media house really take this responsibility like here.” 

Wangchuk reportedly spoke about the role of leadership in tackling climate change. While some world leaders continued to deny the issue, he is said to have acknowledged Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Mission Life initiative as a positive step towards encouraging sustainable living. He remarked that this was the kind of leadership expected from global figures, media houses, and celebrities to ensure a safer environment for people living in mountainous regions.

Who Is Sonam Wangchuk?

Ladakh-based alleged activist Sonam Wangchuk has often been in the news for his hunger strikes and more recently, he was on a hunger strike demanding Ladakh’s inclusion in the Sixth Schedule of the Indian Constitution for greater autonomy. However, the Delhi Police at that time detained him at the Singhu border (in October 2024.)

Wangchuk, often linked to the character of Rancho from 3 Idiots, comes from an influential political family. His father, Sonam Wangyal, was a Congress minister in J&K. Over the years, he received significant support from foreign organizations such as the Ford Foundation, Tata Trust, and Rockefeller Foundation. His wife, Rebecca Norman, an American educator with links to U.S. institutions, has also been a subject of scrutiny.

Wangchuk held various advisory roles under the Congress-led UPA government and collaborated with international NGOs. His work, including projects like Ice Stupas, gained Western media attention but faced skepticism from locals.

Despite initially supporting the repeal of Article 370, Wangchuk later opposed its aftermath, with Pakistan using his statements against India. His demands now include halting army construction in Ladakh for environmental reasons, a stance that has sparked controversy. Critics question his international affiliations and whether his activism aligns with India’s strategic interests.

In March 2024, he abused Lord Ram and Goddess Sita during an interview with NDTV. While criticizing the Modi government for not fulfilling its promise to include Ladakh in the Sixth Schedule, he compared the government’s actions to Lord Ram rescuing Sita from Ravan but then selling her in the open market. He said, “I see it in the way that they [Central government] turned out to be such Ram who freed Sita from Raavan but didn’t take her home rather they put her on sale in an open market. So like this, they have left Ladakh open for industrialists and mining lobbies without any protection [from the government],” 

He claimed that while Ladakh was freed from one problem, it was left vulnerable to industrialists and mining lobbies without government protection. His remarks drew widespread condemnation on social media for being derogatory toward Hindu deities.

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Sonam Wangchuk has been in the news every now and then. Last we heard; he was fasting unto death. But just a day or so ago, he and his supporters were embarking on a march to Delhi, aiming to urge the Indian government to reopen discussions regarding their demands. Central to their petition is the request to include Ladakh in the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution, which would grant greater autonomy and protection to specific tribal regions. This inclusion is said to be essential for better resource management in the area. However, the Delhi Police detained him at the Singhu border.

But who is Sonam Wangchuk? Is he the character portrayed by Aamir Khan in the film 3 Idiots? Or is he someone else?

As per media propaganda, Sonam Wangchuk is an Indian engineer, innovator, education reformist, and climate activist, and the movie ‘3 Idiots’ was based on him. But there are a lot of things that the media didn’t and won’t tell you. Read on…

In Three Idiots, they told you that Rancho was a son of poor Gardner but in real Sonam Wangchuk comes from a very powerful and influential family His father Sonam Wangyal was a Congress leader and Minister in the J&K govt.

In 1988, he started the Students Educational and Cultural Movement of Ladakh. In 1995, he started a project, Operation New Hope. All his projects were funded by the Ford Foundation, Tata Trust, Dan Church Aid, and Karuna Trust. He always received huge support from foreign organizations. We wonder why.

In the late 80s or early 90s, he met an American lady named Rebecca Norman and they got married in 1996. We don’t know why this story of Rebecca Norman has been completely erased by the media. We do not know if they remain married today. But after meeting Rebecca, Sonam’s life changed completely.

Rebecca earned her bachelor’s in International Studies degree at the School for International Training (SIT) and a master’s in Education from Harvard University. SIT, is a private non-profit regionally accredited institution headquartered in Brattleboro, US. It has a close connection with the State Department.

SIT is funded by the Ford Foundation, the George Soros Open Source Foundation, and the B&MG Foundation. Additionally, Rebecca is a close supporter of Biden also and a huge critic of Donald Trump.

After marrying Rebecca, Sonam suddenly started getting huge support from foreign organizations. In 2002, he received the Ashoka fellowship which is funded by the Skoll Foundation, Schwab Foundation, and Rockefeller Foundation.

In 2004, Manmohan Singh became the Prime Minister of India. Sonam always received special patronage from the Congress party. He was appointed to the Drafting Committee of Ladakh Hill Council Vision Document Ladakh 2025 and entrusted with the formulation of the policy on Education and Tourism in 2004.

The document was formally launched by Manmohan Singh in 2005. In 2005, Wangchuk was appointed as a member of the National Governing Council for Elementary Education in the Ministry of HRD in Manmohan Singh Govt.

From 2007 to 2010, Wangchuk worked as an education advisor for Mellemfolkeligt Samvirk, a Danish NGO working to support the Ministry of Education for education reforms. He received a lot of patronage from the puppet Manmohan Singh government (Sonia Gandhi government). In 2008, Congress signed a secret MoU with China.

China’s popular Hero Amir Khan’s movie 3 Idiots gets released. That film was based on Chetan Bhagat’s novel Five Point Someone. But after some time, one section of the media suddenly started to link this movie with Sonam Wangchuk. The truth is that there is no connection between 3 idiots and Sonam.

Sonam’s best time starts in 2016. In 2016, he received the International Fred M. Packard Award, awarded by the Switzerland-based International Union for Conservation of Nature. This award is funded by Rockefeller, Pew, Packard Foundation, etc.
In 2017, he received the TN Khoshoo Memorial Award which is again funded by the Ford Foundation.

In 2018, he received his biggest award – the Magsaysay Award. We already know the link between Magsaysay, Ford, and the CIA in our Ford Foundation thread Magsaysay Award is especially given to CIA assets

Sonam is associated with an NGO LEAD India which is again funded by … no prizes for guessing…. Ford Foundation!

Sonam is also associated with the International Association for Ladakh Studies which published a four-volume book on Ladakh culture. This project was funded by the Ford Foundation, and it seems there is a special connection between Sonam, the CIA’s Ford Foundation, and Congress.
Earlier he supported the repeal of Article 370 but later he became unhappy with the repeal of Article 370. Pakistan used his statement against India.

He calls himself a climate activist and education reformist. His project Ice Stupas was appreciated by Western media, but his own villagers raised doubt about it.

Currently, he is demanding to add Ladakh to the 6th schedule of the constitution which is not possible because the 6th schedule is only for Northeast states. His other demand is to stop construction activity by the Indian army in Ladakh because it may hurt the climate of Ladakh.

This article is based on an X thread by The Chronology.

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The post Who Is Sonam Wangchuk? Engineer, Activist, Or A Two-Bit Deep State Stooge? appeared first on The Commune.

To redefine military capabilities at high altitudes, the Indian Army on Tuesday unveiled the highly anticipated HIM-DRONE-A-THON 2 at Wari La Pass in Ladakh, which exceeds 15,000 feet in altitude.

A Ministry of Defence official said HIM-DRONE-A-THON 2 offered an exclusive platform for over 20 drone manufacturers to showcase a spectrum of drone solutions designed for high-altitude applications. “This initiative aims to tap into the power of cutting-edge indigenous technology, focusing on enhancing operational efficiency,” the official said. He said that drones are increasingly playing a significant role in modern warfare as seen in recent conflicts in Ukraine and Israel, adding, that the roles are expanding across various domains to include surveillance, logistics, precision strikes, communication etc. “Their growing role reflects their versatility, effectiveness and potential to transform military operations,” the official said. He added that HIM-DRONE-A-THON 2 is being organised in collaboration with the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI), from 17 to 18 September.

“Products exhibited here are spanned across domains of surveillance, logistics, loitering munitions, swarm and FPV (first-person view) operations. The extreme terrain of Ladakh provided an authentic testbed for validating the performance and global applicability of these systems, opening doors for India to become a key player in the global drone industry,” the ministry official said. He added all participants were felicitated for their innovations and participation, adding that special recognition was given to the winners in the logistics and FPV categories. “The event gave opportunity to the Indian Army to shortlist a number of products for potential procurement while the product improvements were also recommended for a few products,” an official added.

Lt Col Suneel Bartwal said that the event reflected the Indian Army’s forward-looking vision for 2024 as the ‘Year of Technology Absorption’, highlighting the essential role that drone technology will play in future military operations. He said that it also underlines the immense potential for innovation and global export opportunities, positioning HIM-DRONE-A-THON 2 as a catalyst for advancing India’s broader vision of Raksha Atmanirbharta (Defence Self-Reliance).

HIM-DRONE-A-THON 2 is poised to transform India’s role on the global stage in terms of defence technology, particularly in extreme and high-altitude environments. By harnessing indigenous innovations, the Indian Army is not only enhancing its military capabilities but also driving a wave of technological advancements that will benefit both military and civilian applications in challenging terrains. Through initiatives like this, India continues to assert its leadership in self-reliant defence modernization and cutting-edge technology development.

–IANS

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