Ladakh administration calls Sonam Wangchuk’s allegations on liquor policy ‘false, baseless'

The Ladakh administration has dismissed climate activist Sonam Wangchuk's allegations against the region's liquor policy as "false, baseless, and totally imaginary." Wangchuk had claimed that Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena was acting arbitrarily and that alcohol was being promoted across Ladakh, despite public opposition and the opening of bars near schools and residential areas.

The administration responded by stating that only one liquor shop is currently operational in the entire Union Territory, located in Ward No. 4 of Leh. They also clarified that Wangchuk's claim of alcohol being forcibly promoted was inaccurate, as the new Excise Policy for 2026-27 was withdrawn after receiving feedback from residents and social organizations.

The administration further provided details about the current number of liquor-serving establishments across Ladakh, stating that 50 retail vends of liquor in bars with restaurants are operational, with most located in Leh, Nubra, Zanskar, and Changthang.

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