**Wangchuk’s Wife Defends Him, Blames Security Forces for Violence**
*By Snehil Singh | Sep 28, 2025, 05:16 pm*
Gitanjali Angmo, wife of jailed activist Sonam Wangchuk, has strongly rejected allegations of financial irregularities and “Pakistan links” leveled against her husband. She asserted that Wangchuk’s protests advocating for Ladakh’s rights were peaceful and held the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) responsible for escalating the violence on September 24.
The activist was detained under the National Security Act (NSA) following protests demanding Sixth Schedule status and statehood for Ladakh, which turned violent and resulted in four deaths and around 90 injuries.
**Questioning CRPF’s Actions**
Angmo questioned the CRPF’s decision to open fire on protesters, asking, “Why would CRPF fire on their own people?” She maintained that Wangchuk was only aware of plans for a peaceful protest and had no knowledge of any violent intentions.
Additionally, Angmo claimed that some of Wangchuk’s Ladakhi words were taken out of context and mistranslated when he was accused of delivering a provocative speech.
**Clarifying Foreign Visits and Allegations**
Addressing criticisms related to Wangchuk’s foreign visits, Angmo clarified that his trips were climate-focused rather than anti-national. She cited his attendance at a United Nations conference on climate change as evidence of his genuine commitment.
On allegations of financial discrepancies involving their institutions, Angmo provided details about the Himalayan Institute of Alternatives Leh (HIAL)’s foreign funding and compliance with relevant regulations. She denied any wrongdoing and emphasized that HIAL does not charge fees from students, instead funding its operations through innovative projects such as ice stupas.
**Institutional Challenges**
Angmo also highlighted HIAL’s contributions to innovation and expressed frustration over administrative delays concerning land allotment and registration. She explained that these delays were not due to any fault of the institution but stemmed from the Union Territory administration’s lack of appropriate categories for such organizations.
Following the violence on September 24, the Union Home Ministry canceled SECMOL’s Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA) license, citing alleged financial discrepancies.
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*This article sheds light on the ongoing controversy surrounding Sonam Wangchuk and the challenges faced by activists advocating for Ladakh’s rights.*
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/india/he-praised-pm-sonam-wangchuk-s-wife-trashes-pakistan-link-charge/story
