CPM seeks release of Wangchuk; plans protest on October 1

The Shimla District Committee of the CPM has lambasted the Central Government for the arrest of Ladakh’s activist Sonam Wangchuk and demanded his immediate release. The party also announced that it would stage a protest outside the Deputy Commissioner’s office in Shimla on October 1 for Wangchuk’s release and will also submit a memorandum to the Central Government, through the Governor.

Besides Wangchuk’s immediate release, the party has also demanded unconditional withdrawal of all cases against protesters, protection of democratic and constitutional rights, acceptance of the movement’s legitimate demands and inclusion of Ladakh under the Sixth Schedule.

In a statement issued here, CPM district secretary Vijender Mehra termed Wangchuk’s arrest an assault on democratic rights. He said that Wangchuk, who has been at the forefront of the movement demanding statehood for Ladakh and its inclusion under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution, was detained under the stringent National Security Act (NSA).

“This move has exposed the authoritarian face of the Central government and its disregard for the genuine aspirations of the people of Ladakh. Instead of fulfilling the promises made to the people of Ladakh, the government has resorted to repressive measures to crush a democratic movement,” he said.