On January 6, 2025, Ladakh Member of Parliament Haji Hanifa Jan and several supporters of activist Sonam Wangchuk were detained by police at the Singhu border. The group had gathered in solidarity with Wangchuk, a prominent figure known for his advocacy for the rights of Ladakh’s people and his opposition to certain government policies. Wangchuk has been at the forefront of protests calling for greater autonomy and preservation of local cultures in the region.
The detention occurred when the group attempted to hold a peaceful demonstration at the Singhu border, a site previously associated with various protest movements. Police intervened, citing the lack of necessary permissions and the potential for disruptions. Following the detention, Haji Hanifa Jan and the other protesters were taken to the Narela Police Station for questioning. Their arrest has sparked controversy, with many supporters accusing the authorities of suppressing peaceful dissent.
The incident comes at a time of rising tensions in Ladakh and the wider region, where local leaders and activists are calling for more control over governance and decisions affecting their communities. The protest and subsequent detention of key political figures like Hanifa Jan have brought national attention to the issues facing Ladakh, particularly the challenge of balancing development with the preservation of local traditions and autonomy.