Last Friday, Sonam Wangchuk was detained under the National Security Act (NSA) after being accused of instigating the protests demanding statehood for Ladakh, which turned violent, leading to four deaths in police firing in Leh on September 24. The NSA empowers governments to act pre-emptively against individuals seen as a threat to public order or national security.

And yet, as recently as last year, key offices of the Government were reaching out to the acclaimed education reformer, climate activist and technology innovator for guidance — from topics as diverse as water conservation, clean energy, tourism and even pashmina.

Official records show Wanghuk was also the Centre’s go-to man to headline its flagship events in Ladakh, such as Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav celebrations and World Heri

See Full Page