Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk’s claim that he was placed under house arrest has sharpened a dispute over winter voting in Ladakh, where local groups say the election calendar may limit voter participation.
Wangchuk wrote on X on Nov. 12 that he was under house arrest. Police had removed him from a protest site in Leh on Nov. 11 and escorted him to his residence. He also said dozens of armed guards surrounded his home, without giving a precise count.
Ladakh Director General of Police Anand Jain said Wangchuk had been “advised to stay at his residence” under prohibitory orders issued by the Chief Electoral Officer and the Leh District Magistrate. Police linked the instruction to public-order concerns during the election period. The police account described advice to remain at home; Wangchuk characterized the situation as house arrest.
Wangchuk and allied groups, including the Leh Apex Body and Kargil Democratic Alliance, have objected to holding the Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council election in winter. They argue that weather and seasonal migration could make it harder for residents to take part.
The State Election Commission’s schedule sets Tuesday, Nov. 17, as the nomination deadline and Nov. 18 for scrutiny. Candidates may withdraw through Nov. 20. Polling is set for Dec. 4, and the election process must be completed by Dec. 8.
