Ladakh administration orders closure of Sonam Wangchuk's school pending court ruling

The Ladakh administration has issued a directive to Desert Flower School at Phyang in Leh, instructing the institution to halt all activities until the High Court delivers its verdict on an ongoing case.

According to an official notice, the administration found that classes and other operational activities at the school had commenced without obtaining requisite consent, clearances, and approvals from the competent authorities. The move comes as part of the administration's compliance with legal proceedings in the matter.

The school, founded by climate activist and engineer Sonam Wangchuk, has gained prominence for its innovative educational model focusing on sustainable living and environmental awareness in the Ladakh region. The institution has attracted significant attention for its curriculum emphasizing traditional knowledge alongside modern academics.

The administration's directive requires all academic and extracurricular activities to remain suspended pending the High Court's decision. The order underscores the need for educational institutions to obtain all necessary regulatory approvals before commencing operations in the union territory.

The matter is expected to move through the judicial system in the coming weeks, with the High Court's ruling potentially determining the future operational status of the institution.