India news: Sonam Wangchuk alleges house arrest in Ladakh

Sonam Wangchuk says he has been placed under house arrest in Ladakh, with 20 to 25 police and paramilitary personnel outside his home. His claim follows his removal from a protest site and comes amid opposition to the timing and structure of local hill council elections.

The elections across eight districts are scheduled for 4 December. Wangchuk and civil society groups say winter temperatures can fall below minus 30°C and seasonal migration takes nearly half the population away, risking low turnout; authorities have urged people to participate. The dispute also reflects wider demands for Ladakh statehood and constitutional protections for tribal communities, while police say restrictions follow prohibitory orders issued ahead of the vote.