SRINAGAR: Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk has questioned the Ladakh administration’s reported move to restrict activities at the Himalayan Institute of Alternatives, Ladakh (HIAL), alleging that the institution is being targeted despite receiving national and international recognition.
In a statement, Wangchuk described the administration’s action as a “shahi farmaan” against the institution and sarcastically questioned the decision with the remark, “Close schools and open liquor bars.”
“There is a lot of raita spread on the internet and news about our school,” Wangchuk said, adding that India’s Parliamentary Committee on Education had recommended replicating HIAL across the country.
He also claimed that the institution had received international recognition, including a permanent display at the Victoria and Albert Museum in London and a feature in TIME magazine’s list of 100 climate solutions.
“And yet… They want it closed!” he said.
The controversy follows a notice issued by the Office of the Tehsildar, Leh, directing HIAL to refrain from undertaking any further activities at the institution until the court delivers its verdict or issues fresh directions.
HIAL was co-founded by Wangchuk and Gitanjali J Angmo.
According to media reports, the administration cited the commencement of classes and other activities without obtaining the requisite consent, clearances or approvals from the competent authorities.
The notice also referred to a representation submitted by Angmo to the Deputy Commissioner, Leh, on September 22, seeking a no-objection certificate (NOC) or clearance for the proposed members of the school’s managing committee.
