Sonam Wangchuk’s Wife Rejects ‘Pakistan Link’ Charge, Blames CRPF for Sept 24 Ladakh Violence

National News: Sonam Wangchuk’s wife, Geetanjali Angmo, has denied all allegations linking the Ladakh activist to Pakistan or to financial wrongdoing. She said Wangchuk has always followed Gandhian, peaceful methods of protest and blamed the September 24 violence in Ladakh on the actions of the CRPF. Wangchuk, who was demanding Sixth Schedule status and statehood for Ladakh, was arrested under the NSA on September 4. Four people were killed and over 90 injured in the unrest, and he is currently lodged in Jodhpur Jail, Rajasthan.

'Professional Visit, Not Suspicious Activity'

Speaking to the media over the phone call, Geetanjali said that since his arrest she has not been able to contact him and has yet to receive a copy of the arrest order. Wangchuk’s visit to Pakistan, she clarified, was professional and on the subject of climate change, not for any suspicious activity. She also said that both of them have participated in several international conferences, including the UN-organized Climate Change Conference. She objected to the discriminatory portrayal of the ‘Breathe Pakistan’ conference held in Pakistan and collaborations with organizations like ICIMOD.

'He Follows Peace and Non-Violence'

Geetanjali termed the arrest under the NSA wrong and said her husband has been reminding the government of its promises for Ladakh while following the path of peace and non-violence. She alleged that during the protest, violence broke out after the CRPF fired tear gas, while Wangchuk had no knowledge of any non-peaceful activities. She also called the allegations about Wangchuk’s supposedly derogatory speech false, saying his words were presented out of context. She questioned how a person who talks about building shelters for the Indian Army and boycotting Chinese goods can be branded anti-national.

Clarification on Funding and Development Stance

On the allegations of financial irregularities, Geetanjali provided a clear explanation of the foreign funding received by their institution, the Himalayan Institute of Alternative Learning, saying it was not donations but payment for technical services. She stated that the institution does not charge fees from students and covers operational expenses through innovations. The UGC registration process is still pending, and land allocation has also not been completed due to administrative hurdles. She clarified that Wangchuk is not against development but advocates “mindful development,” which involves local people in the decision-making process. After the 4 September violence, the central government canceled the FCRA license of SECMOL, the organization founded by Wangchuk, which subsequently led to allegations of financial irregularities.