Ladakh admin directs Sonam Wangchuk-founded school to halt activities pending High Court verdict

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Climate activist and educator Sonam Wangchuk. File | Photo Credit: PTI

The Ladakh administration has directed the Himalayan Institute of Alternatives, founded by innovator Sonam Wangchuk, to stop activities at its Desert Flower School pending a final decision by the High Court.

The direction was issued through a notice dated Sunday (November 1, 2026) by the tehsildar's office in Leh and was addressed to Gitanjali J. Angmo, co-founder and CEO of HIAL. Ms. Angmo is also Mr. Wangchuk's wife.

According to the notice, the administration received information that classes and other activities at Desert Flower School Phyang, Leh, had started without obtaining the requisite consent, clearances or approvals from competent authorities.

It also referred to a communication dated September 22, through which Ms. Angmo had sought a 'no-objection certificate' for proposed members of the school's managing committee. The school operates within the HIAL ecosystem.

The administration noted that a matter concerning HIAL is presently sub judice before the High Court of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh.

In view of pending judicial proceedings, the tehsildar advised HIAL and Ms. Angmo to not undertake any further action concerning the functioning or commencement of activities at the school until the matter is finally decided by the High Court or further directions are issued, the notice said.

It also called for strict maintenance of the status quo, cautioning against any action that may prejudice the case pending before the High Court.

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