Srinagar, Nov 3 : The Ladakh administration has directed Gitanjali J. Angmo, wife of climate activist Sonam Wangchuk and founder-CEO of the Himalayan Institute of Alternatives (HIAL), to refrain from commencing classes and other activities at Desert Flower School in Phyang, Leh, pending the outcome of a case before the High Court of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh.

In a notice issued by the Tehsildar Office, Leh, Angmo was advised not to take any action in furtherance of the functioning or commencement of activities at the school until the matter is finally decided by the High Court or further directions by the court.
The notice issued on November 1, stated that Angmo had approached the Deputy Commissioner, Leh, through a letter dated September 22, 2026, seeking the issuance of a No Objection Certificate (NOC) or clearance for the proposed members of the Managing Committee of Desert Flower School, Phyang, under the HIAL ecosystem.
However, the administration said it had come to its notice that classes and other activities at the school were being commenced without obtaining proper consent, clearances or necessary approvals from the concerned authorities.
Citing the pendency of the matter before the High Court, the Tehsildar said Angmo had been advised to refrain from proceeding with the commencement of classes and other activities until the court adjudicated the matter.
The notice further directed her to strictly maintain the status quo and ensure that no action was taken that could prejudice the matter pending before the High Court.
Sonam Wangchuk is also a member of the board of directors of Desert Flower School.