New Delhi, Sep 25: The Union Home Ministry on Thursday canceled the Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA) license of the Students’ Educational and Cultural Movement of Ladakh (SECMOL), founded by renowned climate activist Sonam Wangchuk. The government order specified that the revocation takes effect immediately.
Authorities based their decision on several alleged discrepancies discovered in SECMOL’s financial accounts. The ministry pointed to a fund transfer from Sweden, claiming it undermines “national interest.” This significant action raises concerns about the operational future of an organization that has played a vital role in promoting educational and cultural initiatives in Ladakh.
SECMOL, established by Wangchuk to facilitate cultural and educational programs, has received widespread support for its mission. However, the recent government scrutiny has cast a cloud over its financial practices. The ministry had previously issued a show-cause notice to SECMOL, demanding an explanation for various irregularities identified in its finances.
During the financial year 2021-22, Wangchuk allegedly deposited Rs 3.5 lakh into SECMOL’s FCRA account, violating section 17 of the Act. SECMOL explained that this amount stemmed from the sale proceeds of an old bus—purchased on July 14, 2015, using FCRA funds. The organization claimed that, as per guidelines, any sale proceeds for assets acquired through FCRA must return to the FCRA account.
Contrary to SECMOL’s assertions, the Home Ministry stated that the cash deposit was not properly disclosed and violated the regulations outlined in FCRA. Furthermore, the ministry flagged another transaction involving Rs 3.35 lakh, described as a foreign contribution from Wangchuk, which the ministry claimed was not reflected in the FCRA account, constituting another breach of section 18 of the Act.
Additionally, the ministry highlighted a transfer of Rs 54,600 from local funds to SECMOL’s FCRA accounts. SECMOL argued this occurred by mistake, but the Home Ministry remained unconvinced. The scrutiny of foreign contributions revealed that Rs 4.93 lakh from Sweden, intended for awareness campaigns on climate change and other pressing issues, oversaw increased government vigilance.
In response to SECMOL’s stance that funds were strictly utilized for educational purposes, the ministry dismissed these arguments, reiterating that contributions tied to topics like national sovereignty contradict national interests.
In light of these allegations, the ministry invoked its authority under Section 14 of the FCRA, resulting in the immediate cancellation of SECMOL’s license. The ramifications of this decision could significantly impact SECMOL’s future projects and operations.
Earlier today, Wangchuk voiced his concerns regarding the government’s actions, suggesting they aim to fabricate charges against him in an attempt to incarcerate him. Wangchuk, who has fervently advocated for statehood and constitutional safeguards for Ladakh, expressed fears for his safety.
“I see they are building a case to bring me under the Public Safety Act and throw me in jail for two years,” Wangchuk declared. He remains defiant, stating, “I am ready for that, but Sonam Wangchuk in jail may cause them more problems than free Sonam Wangchuk.”