- CBI investigates Himalayan Institute of Alternatives Ladakh for alleged FCRA violations.
- Probe includes Wangchuk’s February visit to Pakistan.
- Ladakh protests turn violent; 4 dead, over 80 injured, curfew imposed.
- Centre accuses Wangchuk of provocative statements during hunger strike.
- Home Ministry cites ongoing talks with Leh Apex Body and Kargil Democratic Alliance.
GG News Bureau
Leh, 25th Sept: The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has launched an inquiry into alleged violations of the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act (FCRA) by the Himalayan Institute of Alternatives Ladakh (HIAL), founded by educationist and activist Sonam Wangchuk. Officials said the probe began two months ago and also covers Wangchuk’s February 6 visit to Pakistan.
The investigation comes after the Ladakh administration cancelled a land allotment to HIAL in August, a move that triggered protests from local groups demanding statehood and constitutional safeguards under the Sixth Schedule.
Violence erupted on Wednesday during demonstrations in Leh, leaving four people dead and at least 80 injured, including 40 police personnel. Protesters allegedly torched vehicles and targeted the Bharatiya Janata Party headquarters and the Hill Council office. Police and paramilitary forces fired teargas shells to quell the unrest amid a district-wide curfew.
Wangchuk, who recently ended a two-week hunger strike over the statehood demand, has been accused of making provocative remarks, including references to Arab Spring-style protests. The Ministry of Home Affairs said his demands are already under discussion by a High Powered Committee (HPC) and accused “politically motivated individuals” of attempting to derail the dialogue process.
Congress leader and councillor Phuntsog Stanzin Tsepag was also charged for allegedly making a provocative speech at the hunger strike venue. The Centre maintains it remains engaged with the Leh Apex Body and Kargil Democratic Alliance to address Ladakh’s concerns.
