India revokes detention of climate activist Sonam Wangchuk

The Indian government today (14 March) revoked the detention of climate activist Sonam Wangchuk with immediate effect, more than five months after he was arrested under the National Security Act following protests over statehood for the Himalayan region of Ladakh.

He was released from jail in Jodhpur city in Rajasthan at around 1:30pm today, Ratanada Police Station SHO Dinesh Lakhawat said.

Wangchuk was detained on 26 September last year, two days after violent street protests broke out in the region.

Authorities invoked the National Security Act on the orders of the district magistrate of Leh, the main town of the federally administered territory, citing the need to "maintain public order".

He was later transferred to a prison in Jodhpur.

In a statement, India's Ministry of Home Affairs said, "The government remains committed to fostering an environment of peace, stability and mutual trust in Ladakh so as to facilitate constructive and meaningful dialogue with all stakeholders."

"In furtherance of this objective, and after due consideration, the government has decided to revoke the detention of Sonam Wangchuk with immediate effect by exercising the powers available under the National Security Act," it added.

The ministry also said it hopes issues concerning Ladakh will be resolved through constructive engagement and dialogue, including through the mechanism of a high-powered committee and other appropriate platforms.

Meanwhile, Wangchuk's wife, Geetanjali Wangchuk, has filed a petition in the Supreme Court of India challenging her husband's detention under the National Security Act.

The court has adjourned the hearing on the petition until 17 March.