Activist Wangchuk warns of protest after opposition leaders detained in Delhi

Sonam Wangchuk issued the stark warning on Saturday after security forces detained multiple opposition leaders, student activists, lawyers and journalists in Delhi as part of what authorities described as sweeping restrictions ahead of a scheduled protest. The demonstration had been called to demand the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar over alleged irregularities in electoral rolls.

In a video message circulated on social media, Wangchuk said he had received reports that student leaders, youth activists, legislators and media representatives had been arrested during the day. He expressed dismay that such action had been taken despite his recent appeal for demonstrators to maintain peace and unity.

"I believed that a peaceful demonstration would be allowed in the world's largest democracy," Wangchuk stated, condemning the detentions. The activist indicated he would reconsider his previous calls for restraint and launch a sustained protest campaign if the detained individuals were not freed within 24 hours.

Wangchuk suggested the planned action could take the form of a hunger strike or a march in either Leh or Delhi, signalling an escalation of pressure on the government. The detentions have raised concerns among civil society groups about restrictions on democratic freedoms and the right to peaceful assembly.