Sonam Wangchuk’s SECMOL FCRA license revoked after violence in Leh

Leh: The central government has revoked the license granted under the Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA) to the Students Educational and Cultural Movement of Ladakh (SECMOL), an organization led by Sonam Wangchuk, a renowned environmentalist and education reformer. Consequently, the organization will no longer be able to receive any financial assistance or donations from abroad. The government has not yet officially disclosed the details of the license cancellation. This move has sparked political and social unrest in Ladakh. Ladakh Protest: Congress councillor booked as 50 injured in Leh; Full story here SECMOL's Establishment and Objective It is worth noting that SECMOL was founded in 1988 by Sonam Wangchuk. This organization primarily works for educational reform, environmental protection, and cultural activities in Ladakh. Sonam Wangchuk has already been in the news for his advocacy of environmental and constitutional demands in Ladakh. Violence In Ladakh and Home Ministry Response Recently, Wangchuk began a hunger strike on September 10th, demanding inclusion of Ladakh in the Sixth Schedule and statehood. On Wednesday, the region witnessed the most serious violence since 1989. Youths attacked the BJP headquarters and the Hill Council, setting vehicles on fire. Police and paramilitary forces fired tear gas shells during the clashes. Four protesters were killed and approximately 80 people, including 30 police personnel, were injured. The Home Ministry issued a statement saying that Sonam Wangchuk incited the crowd through his inflammatory statements. Amid the violent incidents, he broke his hunger strike and left for his village in an ambulance without any significant effort. Ladakh Protest Turns Violent: 4 Dead, Dozens Injured Amid Statehood Demand Sonam Wangchuk and Political Turmoil This government move could further intensify social and political debate in Ladakh. Sonam Wangchuk's supporters see this as a move that could impact educational and environmental work. Meanwhile, the administration maintains that maintaining law and order is a priority. This decision will impact SECMOL's projects and foreign funding. Experts say this matter could also prove significant in the future regarding Ladakh's constitutional demands and political stability.