Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk says he is under house arrest at his home in Leh.
He made this claim on Thursday, 12 November.
It came just before planned protests against upcoming local and hill council elections in Ladakh.
He says dozens of armed guards stand outside his house. He also says no written order was given to him for this.
The police and local officials say he was only "advised to stay" indoors.
This comes under a 60-day prohibitory order. Such orders are meant to keep public peace during the election period.
Key points
- Wangchuk says he is under house arrest in Leh. Police say he was only advised to stay home.
- He says armed guards are outside his house, and no written order was given to him.
- The 60-day order applies during the election period. Polls are on 21 November and 4 December.
- Wangchuk says he will challenge the order in court.
So what is the dispute really about?
Wangchuk asked why a judicial enquiry report into the September 2025 deaths during a protest in Leh is still delayed.
He also questioned the decision to hold hill council polls in peak winter.
The Leh District Magistrate says the restrictions are needed to stop unauthorised gatherings.
The aim is to protect public calm while the Model Code of Conduct is in force.
This code is the set of rules that applies during elections.
Wangchuk called the restrictions "arbitrary, vague and disproportionate." He says his movement is being curbed for asking uncomfortable questions.
Why do the election dates matter for ordinary people?
Municipal and panchayat elections are set for 21 November.
Elections to the eight Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Councils will be held on 4 December.
- September 2025Deaths during a protest in Leh; the judicial enquiry report is still delayed.
- 12 NovemberWangchuk says he is under house arrest at his home in Leh.
- 21 NovemberMunicipal and panchayat elections are set for this date.
- 4 DecemberElections to the eight Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Councils.
- 15 DecemberThe Chief Secretary says schools stay open until this date.
Graphic: News Anek, from the facts in this report
Winter in Ladakh brings sub-zero temperatures and heavy snow.
Local groups say about 25 per cent of people, including students, leave the region in winter.
They fear this could affect voter turnout.
Protesters also raise concerns about young voters allegedly being deleted from electoral rolls.
The Chief Secretary says schools stay open until 15 December.
He says officials have been asked to arrange heaters and separate queues for elderly voters.
What happens next after this standoff?
Wangchuk has written to the administration. He wants the police deployment withdrawn and written legal clarity on the order.
Meanwhile, the Leh Apex Body (LAB) has begun an indefinite sit-in.
The Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA) has announced a solidarity candle march.
Both are local groups that have raised concerns about the polls.
