Apex Body Alleges Illegal Detention of Ladakhi Leaders, Says Their Rights Being Trampled
New Delhi, Oct 2, KNT: After the ‘illegal’ detention of leaders from Ladakh in Delhi, the Apex Body, representing the detained leaders, has alleged that their fundamental rights have been trampled upon.
The Apex Body has termed the detention of leaders from Ladakh including Sonam Wangchuk illegal.
Jigmat Paljor, Coordinator of the Apex Body, revealed that some groups were released after nearly 24 hours, only to be taken back to the police station. “Last night, police attempted to forcibly relocate us to an unknown location, but we resisted,” Paljor stated.
He said they have been on hunger strike for 36 hours, coinciding with Mahatma Gandhi’s birth anniversary. “Instead of paying respects at Gandhi Samadhi, we find ourselves in police custody,” he said.
“The irony is not lost on us,” Paljor noted. “Today, we intended to honor Gandhi’s legacy of peace and democracy, but our rights are being violated.”
The detained leaders’ phones have been confiscated at Bawana Police Station, severing their connection with the outside world.
The Apex Body has appealed for solidarity, expressing concerns about India’s democratic fabric. “This incident raises serious questions about our democracy,” Paljor emphasized.
Human rights activists and lawyers have taken notice, with a Delhi High Court petition seeking immediate release of the detained leaders.
Ladakh observed a complete shutdown yesterday against the ‘illegal’ detention of leaders from the region.
People of Ladakh demand statehood, Sixth Schedule status, establishment of a Public Service Commission, and separate parliamentary representation for Kargil and Leh regions. [KNT]
