Ladakh Administration Directs Sonam Wangchuk-Founded School to Suspend Activities Pending High Court Decision

The Ladakh administration has directed the Himalayan Institute of Alternatives (HIAL), founded by educationist and innovator Sonam Wangchuk, to suspend activities at its Desert Flower School in Phyang, Leh, until the High Court of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh delivers its final decision in a pending legal matter.

The directive was issued through a notice dated November 1 by the Tehsildar's office in Leh. It was addressed to Gitanjali J Angmo, co-founder and CEO of HIAL, who is also Wangchuk's wife.

According to the administration, it received information that classes and other activities at Desert Flower School had commenced without obtaining the necessary consent, clearances or approvals from the competent authorities.

Administration Cites Lack of Mandatory Approvals

The notice also referred to a communication dated September 22, 2026, in which Angmo had approached the Deputy Commissioner of Leh seeking a No Objection Certificate (NOC) for the proposed members of the school's managing committee.

However, the administration stated that school activities had reportedly begun before the required permissions were secured. Desert Flower School operates within the HIAL ecosystem.

HIAL Land Dispute Pending Before High Court

The administration's directive comes amid an ongoing legal dispute involving HIAL and the Ladakh administration. The matter is currently pending before the High Court of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh.

The dispute is linked to the administration's decision in August 2025 to cancel the land allotment made to HIAL. The institute subsequently challenged the decision by filing a writ petition before the High Court.

In view of the pending proceedings, the Tehsildar has advised HIAL and Angmo not to take further steps towards the functioning or commencement of activities at Desert Flower School until the court delivers its final decision or issues additional directions.

Status Quo to Be Maintained Until Court Decision

The notice has also called for strict maintenance of the existing status quo, cautioning the institute against taking any action that could adversely affect or prejudice the proceedings before the High Court.

The directive places an administrative restraint on the school's activities while the legal dispute remains unresolved. The final outcome will depend on the High Court's decision and any subsequent directions issued by the authorities.