Leh (Ladakh), September 25: The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has been looking into the Himalayan Institute of Alternative Learning (HIAL), an organization led by social activist Sonam Wangchuk, for the past two months over suspected violations of the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act (FCRA), sources have revealed. However, no formal case or preliminary inquiry (PE) has been filed yet.
According to CBI sources, the investigation centers around possible irregularities regarding foreign contributions and the use of funds. In August, the Ladakh Administration cancelled the land allotment granted to HIAL, citing that the land was not being used for the purpose it was originally allocated. Furthermore, no lease agreement had been signed, leading to the cancellation of the allotment.
The CBI’s investigation is ongoing, with officials hinting that a preliminary inquiry (PE) may be initiated once the investigation is concluded.
The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) recently placed some of the blame for violent protests in Leh on Wangchuk. The protests, which erupted on Wednesday over the demand for the implementation of the 6th Schedule, have been a contentious issue in Ladakh. The MHA issued a statement saying, “Sonam Wangchuk began a hunger strike on September 10, demanding the 6th Schedule and statehood for Ladakh. While the Government of India has been in active discussions with the Apex Body Leh and the Kargil Democratic Alliance on the same issues, some politically motivated individuals are attempting to derail the dialogue process.”
The MHA emphasized that the government has been working through formal channels, such as the High-Powered Committee and Sub-committee, as well as informal meetings with key leaders. These discussions have led to significant progress, including an increase in reservations for Ladakh’s Scheduled Tribes from 45% to 84%, the establishment of women’s reservations in councils, and the recognition of Bhoti and Purgi as official languages. Additionally, the recruitment process for 1,800 positions has commenced.
Despite these developments, the MHA criticized Wangchuk for continuing his hunger strike and inciting public unrest by making provocative statements, including references to the Arab Spring-style protests and Gen Z protests in Nepal. Despite calls from several leaders to end the hunger strike, Wangchuk has persisted with his actions, which the MHA has described as misleading and provocative. (ANI Input)
