Ladakh Police Probe Sonam Wangchuk for Alleged Pakistan Connections and Suspicious Funding

The Ladakh Police recently made a startling revelation in the ongoing investigation involving Sonam Wangchuk, the prominent Ladakhi activist and innovator. According to Ladakh DGP Dr. S.D. Singh Jamwal, authorities have arrested a Pakistani Intelligence Operative (PIO) who was reportedly in touch with Wangchuk and passing sensitive details to Pakistan.

The police records indicate that Wangchuk attended a Dawn event in Pakistan and also visited Bangladesh, raising significant questions about his international engagements. Authorities are closely examining these activities to determine whether they were connected to foreign influence or intelligence operations.

In addition to alleged links with Pakistan, investigations are underway regarding foreign funding. Wangchuk’s NGO, the Students’ Educational and Cultural Movement of Ladakh (SECMOL), is reportedly under scrutiny for possible violations of the Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA). The Ministry of Home Affairs has reportedly suspended or canceled the FCRA license pending investigation.

The case follows recent unrest in Leh, where protests led to clashes between demonstrators and police, resulting in multiple casualties and the imposition of a curfew along with internet restrictions. Wangchuk was subsequently arrested and shifted to Jodhpur Central Jail, located over 1,000 kilometers from Ladakh, in order to ensure security and control.

The DFG report suggests that authorities are treating the matter with utmost seriousness, focusing on national security and the potential impact of any foreign connections on regional stability.

While investigations continue, Wangchuk’s international visits, alleged communication with a Pakistani operative, and foreign funding concerns remain at the center of attention. The outcome of this case could have wider implications for civil society activism and foreign influence monitoring in sensitive regions like Ladakh.