Leh/Jodhpur – September 27, 2025:
Ladakh-based activist and education reformer Sonam Wangchuk has been shifted to Jodhpur Central Jail under the National Security Act (NSA), following violent protests in Leh earlier this week. Central agencies are now investigating alleged financial irregularities and foreign funding violations linked to his NGOs.
FCRA Licence Revoked
The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has cancelled the FCRA (Foreign Contribution Regulation Act) licence of Wangchuk’s well-known NGO, Students’ Educational and Cultural Movement of Ladakh (SECMOL). Officials cite multiple violations, including unauthorized deposits, improper mixing of local and foreign contributions, and acceptance of funds for activities beyond the permitted scope of FCRA, such as programs related to “sovereignty.”
CBI Inquiry into SECMOL and HIAL
The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has also launched a probe into both SECMOL and the Himalayan Institute of Alternatives, Ladakh (HIAL), another institute associated with Wangchuk.
Key points under investigation include:
- Around ₹3.35–3.5 lakh allegedly deposited into SECMOL’s FCRA account in FY 2021–22, which the NGO claims were proceeds from the sale of a bus purchased with FCRA funds.
- Local donations of about ₹54,600 from Indian citizens reportedly deposited into the FCRA account in FY 2020–21, instead of the domestic account.
- Receipt of ₹4.93 lakh from Swedish organisation Framtidsjorden for workshops on climate change, migration, food security, and sovereignty. Officials argue that “sovereignty” is a sensitive area not covered under FCRA permissions.
NGO’s Response
Wangchuk and his organizations have denied deliberate wrongdoing. They maintain that all transactions were related to legitimate educational and environmental programs, that taxes were paid, and that any lapses were clerical or administrative errors. SECMOL has further contested the government’s interpretation of “national interest” in the context of its awareness programs.
Unverified Allegations
While speculation persists regarding foreign media promotion, secret overseas meetings, and students being drawn into protests, no conclusive evidence has been presented publicly to support these claims. Current investigations remain focused primarily on financial compliance under the FCRA.
Broader Implications
Supporters argue Wangchuk is being targeted for his environmental advocacy and role in the Ladakh statehood movement. Officials counter that the case reflects strict enforcement of NGO financial regulations in a sensitive border region.
As investigations proceed, Wangchuk’s detention in Jodhpur is seen as a significant development in the intersection of activism, foreign funding, and national security concerns in Ladakh
