Activist Sonam Wangchuk Calls Off Border March Amid Government Restrictions

Leh: Activist Sonam Wangchuk has decided to call off his proposed border march to the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in Ladakh, following restrictions imposed by the Ladakh administration under Section 144 and internet curbs in the region.

The Ladakh administration’s decision to disallow the march, aimed at highlighting China’s land encroachments since 2020, prompted Wangchuk to cancel the event. The activist had planned to lead the march to the Chungathung border area, intending to draw attention to the territorial disputes along the border.

Expressing concerns over the government’s perceived “overreaction,” Wangchuk feared that the restrictions might escalate tensions and incite clashes or riots. He voiced apprehensions that any disruption during the peaceful agitation could be exploited to suppress further protests in Ladakh.

“The government’s decision to curtail the march reflects its apprehension regarding the potential impact on elections and its vote bank,” Wangchuk remarked, suggesting a political motive behind the restrictions.

Describing the government’s measures as “madness,” Wangchuk emphasized their potential ramifications on national security and regional peace. Consequently, he opted to withdraw the planned march to prevent any escalation of tensions.