Educationist Sonam Wangchuk on Wednesday accused the Ladakh administration of targeting institutions and individuals who question its decisions, alleging that the action against the Himalayan Institute of Alternatives, Ladakh (HIAL), was aimed at suppressing dissent in the region.
Wangchuk’s criticism followed a notice issued to HIAL directing it to stop activities associated with the Desert Flower School at Phyang. He termed the action part of a broader campaign to silence opposing voices and questioned the administration’s approach towards education.
Speaking to reporters in Leh alongside his wife and HIAL co-founder and CEO Gitanjali J Angmo, Wangchuk criticised what he described as contradictory policies. He alleged that while educational institutions were facing restrictions, rules governing liquor establishments were being relaxed in the Union Territory.
He expressed concern that such measures could discourage education while increasing alcohol accessibility in Ladakh.
