New Delhi: The National Alliance of People’s Movements (NAPM) on Saturday strongly condemned the arrest of climate activist Sonam Wangchuk under the National Security Act (NSA) and the recent violence in Ladakh that resulted in four deaths. In a press release, the advocacy group called for Mr. Wangchuk's immediate release and urged the Union Government to initiate a "receptive and substantive dialogue" on the demands for statehood and Sixth Schedule status for the region.

The NAPM expressed deep concern over what it described as the "Centre’s long-standing neglect of Ladakh’s legitimate demands." The organization is demanding a judicial inquiry into the killings of the youth during the recent unrest.

According to the statement, the people of Ladakh have long sought constitutional safeguards to protect their unique culture and fragile high-altitude environment from the pressures of unsustainable development. "Granting Ladakh protection under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution and recognition as a full-fledged state is not only a just demand, but also an urgent necessity," the release stated, noting that the overwhelming majority of Ladakhis belong to scheduled tribes, a key criterion for such protection.

The NAPM emphasized that the Ladakhi movement, represented by the Leh Apex Body (LAB) and Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA), has been consistently peaceful. It noted that Mr. Wangchuk had been on a fast to press for the demands but had withdrawn it on the 15th day after condemning the outbreak of violence.

The organization accused the Union Government of "falsely blaming Mr Wangchuk for the recent unfortunate violence" and argued that his arrest is "unnecessarily and unjustly adding to the tense situation." The NAPM stated that the government would be held accountable for the lives lost and that suppressing peaceful movements could lead to further unrest.

In its statement, NAPM outlined a list of demands directed at the Union Government:

1. Immediately release Sonam Wangchuk, withdraw all charges against him under the NSA, and ensure his safe return to Leh.

2. End all repressive measures against the people’s movement in Ladakh.

3. Resume a conclusive dialogue with the Leh Apex Body (LAB) and Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA) regarding their demands for Sixth Schedule status and statehood.

4. Institute an independent, high-level judicial enquiry into the violence and civilian deaths.

5. Provide full medical support to the injured, along with compensation and a government job for the families of the deceased.