Introduction:
In a development that has intensified the ongoing agitation in Ladakh, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) revoked the Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA) licence of the Students' Educational and Cultural Movement of Ladakh (SECMOL), founded by renowned activist and climate campaigner Sonam Wangchuk, on September 25, 2025. The order, issued under Section 14 of the FCRA 2010, accuses the NGO of violating foreign funding norms by utilizing grants for unauthorized purposes, marking a significant blow to Wangchuk's organization amid his indefinite hunger strike since September 21 for greater autonomy under the Sixth Schedule. SECMOL, established in 1988 to promote education and environmental awareness among Ladakhi youth, has been a cornerstone of regional development, receiving ₹2.5 crore in foreign contributions since 2019 for projects like school reforms and climate initiatives.
Wangchuk, 58, who gained global acclaim for his 21-day ice stupa march in 2015 and Padma Shri in 2018, termed the revocation "politically motivated," linking it to the Ladakh protesters' demands for constitutional safeguards against land and job losses to outsiders. The fast, joined by Leh Apex Body leader Chering Dorjay, entered its fourth day, with Wangchuk warning of health decline and potential arrests if demands aren't met by October 3. Why does this matter? Ladakh's protests, reignited since August 2024 after the scrapping of Article 370, highlight tensions over the Union Territory's status, with locals fearing cultural erosion and economic marginalization. The FCRA cancellation, the third against Ladakh NGOs in 2025, raises concerns over freedom of association amid border sensitivities with China. As of September 26, 2025, 10:00 AM IST, #SaveLadakh trends on X with 50,000 posts, 80% supporting Wangchuk. This article details the revocation, Wangchuk's fast, SECMOL's work, historical context, statistics, expert views, and implications.
The FCRA Revocation: Violations and MHA Order
The MHA's order under FCRA Section 14 accuses SECMOL of misusing foreign funds for activities beyond approved objectives, including administrative expenses exceeding limits and unauthorized transfers. SECMOL's FCRA, renewed in 2020, allowed ₹5 crore annually but was flagged for non-compliance in annual returns. The NGO received ₹2.5 crore from donors like the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) and European foundations for education and eco-tourism projects. Wangchuk denied violations, calling it a "weapon to silence dissent" amid the autonomy agitation.
Sonam Wangchuk's Fast: Demands and Health
Wangchuk's indefinite fast, started September 21 at Leh's Polo Ground, demands full Sixth Schedule implementation for Ladakh, protecting tribal lands, jobs, and environment from post-Article 370 influx. Joined by Dorjay and 200 protesters, his health deteriorated by Day 5, with BP at 90/60 and warnings of hospitalization. The Leh Apex Body rejected partial concessions, insisting on constitutional safeguards.
SECMOL's Work and Legacy
SECMOL, co-founded by Wangchuk in 1988, revolutionized Ladakhi education with student-run schools, solar projects, and eco-tourism, impacting 5,000 youth. It received the 2018 World Future Council award for sustainability.
Historical Context: Ladakh's Autonomy Struggle
Ladakh's protests erupted in 2020 after Article 370's abrogation, stripping special status and protections. The 2024 Supreme Court ruling upheld the move but promised safeguards; locals demand Sixth Schedule for land rights. Wangchuk's 2023 climate march drew 10,000.
Statistics
- FCRA Revocations: 20,000 NGOs since 2014; 3 in Ladakh 2025.
- SECMOL Funding: ₹2.5 crore foreign since 2019.
- Protesters: 200 on fast; 10,000 in 2023 march.
| Year | FCRA Revocations | Ladakh Cases |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | 5,000 | 2 |
| 2025 | 3,000+ | 3 |
Expert Opinions
- Wangchuk: "Political move to silence autonomy demands."
- Dorjay: "FCRA weapon against dissent."
- On X: #SaveLadakh 80% support Wangchuk.
Potential Impacts
Revocation halts foreign funding, crippling SECMOL; fast may escalate protests, risking arrests. Could strain India-China border talks.
Conclusion
SECMOL's FCRA cancellation on September 25, 2025, amid Wangchuk's fast, heightens Ladakh's autonomy battle. Government silence fuels tensions. Updates at nuvexic.com.
FAQ
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What is the reason for SECMOL's FCRA revocation?
Violations in foreign funding usage, per MHA order under Section 14. -
When did Wangchuk start his fast?
September 21, 2025, for Sixth Schedule protections. -
What is SECMOL?
NGO founded in 1988 by Wangchuk for Ladakhi education and environment. -
Foreign funding to SECMOL?
₹2.5 crore since 2019. -
Ladakh protests demands?
Sixth Schedule for land, jobs, tribal protections. -
Government response?
No comment; MHA directed NIA probe.