Sonam Wangchuk to lead 20-km symbolic march in Leh on September 23

Activist Sonam Wangchuk announced plans for a 20-kilometer symbolic march in Leh on September 23, 2026, aimed at protecting Ladakh's culture, environment, and democracy. The march, originally scheduled for September 19-23, was postponed due to weather and political concerns. It will be followed by a martyrs' day event on September 24, marking the first anniversary of four civilians killed during a protest on September 24, 2025, when security forces allegedly opened fire on protesters demanding Ladakh's Statehood and tribal status.

Wangchuk, who led a hunger strike and was detained under the National Security Act for 170 days following the previous protest, supports agitational tactics to push for Ladakh's demands.