Ashok Gehlot Critiques Central Government Over Sonam Wangchuk's Detention and Release
Synopsis
Ashok Gehlot has raised alarm over the Central government's handling of Sonam Wangchuk's arrest, questioning the accountability behind his lengthy detention without evidence. This controversy highlights concerns about the government's interpretation of national security.
Key Takeaways
Ashok Gehlot criticizes the Centre's handling of Sonam Wangchuk's case.
Wangchuk was detained under the National Security Act .
Gehlot questions the government's accountability for Wangchuk's detention.
The release raises concerns about the definition of national security by the ruling party.
Public scrutiny of government actions is increasing.
Jaipur, March 14 (NationPress) Former Chief Minister of Rajasthan, Ashok Gehlot, has voiced strong criticism against the Central government regarding the arrest and later release of Sonam Wangchuk, a climate activist from Ladakh. He stated that this incident raises significant concerns about the government's operational integrity.
Gehlot expressed relief at Wangchuk's release, highlighting that the activist had been detained under the strict provisions of the National Security Act for advocating the rights of Ladakh’s residents and for environmental conservation.
He posed a critical question: how can someone labeled a “threat to national security” and held in Jodhpur Central Jail for several months be released without any evidence against him?
“If no substantial proof was found, who will be held responsible for the nearly 170 days he spent behind bars? What justified his initial arrest?” Gehlot queried.
The senior Congress politician further speculated whether the ruling party now defines “national security” based on its own political interests.
“This selective application of severe laws demonstrates an authoritarian approach and damages the trustworthiness of our democratic institutions. The citizens are attentively observing these developments,” he remarked.
In a related update, Sonam Wangchuk was released from Jodhpur Central Jail on Saturday after the government revoked the National Security Act under which he had been detained.
Upon the NSA’s withdrawal, prison officials facilitated his release. His wife, Geetanjali Wangchuk, came to the jail early in the day to pick him up, and together they exited the prison after completing the necessary formalities.
Reports indicate that Geetanjali arrived at the jail around 10 a.m. and finalized the administrative requirements for Wangchuk's release. The couple departed the premises between 1 p.m. and 1:15 p.m. in a private vehicle.
Jail officials did not disclose Wangchuk’s travel intentions, leaving it uncertain whether he would depart from Jodhpur by air, train, or road.
Wangchuk had faced detention under the National Security Act following the unrest in Leh on September 24, 2025, while he was on a hunger strike concerning various issues affecting Ladakh.
Just two days later, on September 26, authorities invoked the NSA and took him into custody, leading to his confinement in Jodhpur Central Jail.
Point of View
Especially concerning civil liberties and the treatment of activists. It emphasizes the need for clarity in the application of national security laws and the potential implications for democratic integrity.
NationPress
2 Jul 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was Sonam Wangchuk arrested?
Sonam Wangchuk was arrested under the National Security Act following unrest in Leh during his hunger strike advocating for the rights of Ladakh residents.
What was Ashok Gehlot's response to Wangchuk's release?
Gehlot welcomed Wangchuk's release but criticized the government for the lack of accountability regarding his lengthy detention without evidence.
What concerns did Gehlot raise?
He raised concerns about the government's definition of national security and the implications of using stringent laws selectively.
What is the National Security Act?
The National Security Act allows for preventive detention of individuals deemed a threat to national security without the need for trial.
How long was Wangchuk in custody?
Wangchuk spent nearly 170 days in custody before his release.
