Delhi High Court to Decide Fate of Ladakhi Activists' Protest

The Delhi High Court is set to hear a plea regarding permission for a protest led by climate activist Sonam Wangchuk. The protest aims to raise awareness on ecological and cultural issues in Ladakh and is planned to take place at Jantar Mantar. The plea argues that Delhi Police's denial of permission infringes upon fundamental rights.

The Delhi High Court is scheduled to hear a plea requesting permission for a protest by climate activist Sonam Wangchuk and others. They aim to hold the demonstration at Jantar Mantar or another suitable location in Delhi. Their protest highlights ecological and cultural concerns in Ladakh and the wider Himalayan region.

The plea was mentioned urgently before Chief Justice Manmohan and Justice Tushar Rao Gedela, but could not be listed immediately for hearing. Wangchuk led nearly 200 activists in a 30-day protest march spanning over 900 km from Leh to Delhi, emphasizing awareness of ecological issues in Ladakh.

The plea describes a letter from Delhi Police rejecting a demonstration at Jantar Mantar, claiming this violates the fundamental rights to free speech and peaceful assembly. It calls for a revocation of the police decision, arguing inadequate justification for the denial and noting the protest corresponds with legitimate activism for social issues.