Ladakh Police have arrested former Army man Tsering Stanba, a close associate of climate activist Sonam Wangchuk, nearly two months after violent clashes during a protest for statehood and Sixth Schedule status in Leh. The protests, which resulted in civilian casualties, have led to increased scrutiny of civil society members by authorities. Stanba, who had participated in a hunger strike alongside Wangchuk, is accused of being deeply involved in the agitation. His family asserts his innocence, describing him as a patriot. The arrest has sparked allegations of harassment from local leaders, highlighting tensions between the government and civil society amidst ongoing negotiations for regional autonomy.