Leh Unrest: Government Cancels Foreign Funding License of Sonam Wangchuk’s NGO

National News: The government has revoked the FCRA registration of Sonam Wangchuk’s non-profit organisation. Officials claim the NGO repeatedly violated rules of the Foreign Contribution Regulation Act. The cancellation order came within 24 hours of violent protests in Leh. These demonstrations were led by Wangchuk, who has been a key face in the demand for Ladakh’s statehood. With the registration cancelled, the NGO will not be able to receive any foreign donations in the future.

Impact On Funding Sources

The cancellation of FCRA registration means the organisation cannot access international funding channels. This will hit its financial stability and projects dependent on external donations. For years, Wangchuk’s group has received aid from global supporters to run educational and social initiatives in Ladakh. Now, without foreign contributions, the NGO will face a serious funding crunch. Experts say this step will weaken the network of activism in the region.

CBI Probe Already Underway

Before this cancellation, the Central Bureau of Investigation had started looking into possible violations of foreign funding laws linked to Wangchuk’s organisations. The inquiry has been active for some time but no formal FIR has been lodged. Officials state the decision to cancel the license is based on continuous non-compliance. The CBI’s role will be to establish if funds were misused or diverted against legal provisions.

Connection With Ladakh Protests

The cancellation comes right after protests in Leh turned violent. Wangchuk has been spearheading a campaign for Ladakh’s statehood and special protections. Thousands of locals participated, demanding constitutional safeguards. The government believes that strict monitoring of funding is necessary since foreign money could influence such agitations. This direct timing of action has raised questions among activists about whether the crackdown is political.

Government’s Official Stand

According to the Home Ministry, NGOs must strictly follow guidelines on foreign donations. Any repeated violation can lead to cancellation of registration. In this case, officials claim notices were issued earlier but violations continued. The ministry argues that the step is about accountability, not politics. By cancelling the license, the government wants to send a message that non-compliance will not be tolerated.

Wangchuk’s Growing Influence

Sonam Wangchuk has become a prominent voice in Ladakh over the last few years. Known for his work in education and environment, he gained international recognition. His campaign for Ladakh’s rights has received wide support from local communities. The protests he recently led were some of the biggest in the region. With his NGO now cut off from foreign money, his ability to mobilise resources may face a major challenge.

Wider Political Implications

Analysts believe this decision will have larger consequences. Cutting off foreign funds is a blow to local activism in Ladakh. It could also signal a tougher stance from the government against NGOs engaged in protests. Opposition parties are already questioning the timing, linking it to the agitation. The coming weeks will show whether the crackdown silences dissent or sparks more anger in Ladakh’s political landscape.