Archive · 17 Dec 2025
Parliamentary Panel Calls Wangchuk's Work 'Exemplary' Amid NSA Detention
Sonam Wangchuk is a climate activist who started an institute called HIAL in Ladakh.
A group of important people from the government visited his institute and said his work is very good.
They even suggested that his institute should be officially recognized.
But soon after, Sonam was arrested for his involvement in protests.
Many people who visited his institute are surprised and sad that he was arrested because they think he does a lot of good work.
The institute helps students who have trouble in school and teaches them in a special way that connects with their local culture and environment.
Some people think the government should not have arrested him and should instead support his work.
Parliamentary panel visited HIAL in July 2023 and called its work 'exemplary' in their report.
HIAL was recommended for UGC recognition for its innovative education model.
Sonam Wangchuk was arrested on September 26, 2023, under the NSA for alleged involvement in protests.
Members of the panel expressed regret over Wangchuk's arrest, highlighting his contributions to education and community.
HIAL's work includes experiential learning, building ice stupas for water conservation, and supporting students who have failed in traditional schooling.
- Who
- Sonam Wangchuk, a climate activist and founder of HIAL
- What
- Arrest under the National Security Act (NSA) and recognition of HIAL's work by a parliamentary panel
- When
- Arrest on September 26, 2023; panel visit in July 2023
- Where
- Ladakh, India
- Why
- Accusations of instigating protests for statehood and inclusion under the Sixth Schedule
- Name
- Sonam Wangchuk
- Institute
- Himalayan Institute of Alternatives, Ladakh (HIAL)
- Committee
- Standing Committee on Education, Women, Youth and Sports
- Committee Head
- Digvijaya Singh
- Arrest Date
- September 26, 2023
- NSA Imposed
- Yes
- UGC Recognition
- Pending
- HIAL Initiatives
- Experiential education, ice stupas, student support