New Delhi: The Supreme Court will on Wednesday hear the high-profile Sonam Wangchuk detention case, challenging the arrest of the renowned Ladakh-based climate activist and innovator under the National Security Act (NSA).
The petition, filed by Wangchuk’s wife Gitanjali J. Angmo, questions the legality of his detention and the procedure followed by the Leh administration. Earlier this month, a bench of Justices Aravind Kumar and N.V. Anjaria permitted Angmo to amend her plea after senior advocate Kapil Sibal sought to include new details furnished by the government.
Sibal informed the court that the Centre had recently provided the grounds of detention to Wangchuk, prompting a revision of the original petition. Following his submission, the court listed the matter for a detailed hearing today.
The petition initially alleged that the authorities violated Section 8 of the NSA, which requires the government to share reasons for detention within a stipulated period. In response, the Leh administration, through District Magistrate Romil Singh Donk, maintained that it had complied with the legal requirement and duly informed Wangchuk.
Meanwhile, the NSA Advisory Board has reviewed Wangchuk’s detention in a closed-door hearing at Jodhpur Central Jail, attended by Wangchuk and his wife. The three-member panel — chaired by former judge M.K. Hujura — evaluated both the administration’s justifications and Wangchuk’s counterarguments.
Wangchuk, globally known for his sustainable innovations and climate activism, has inspired millions through his work in eco-friendly education and solar technology. His detention under the NSA has ignited nationwide protests and strong criticism from civil rights groups, who argue that the move undermines democratic principles and free expression.
As the Supreme Court takes up the Sonam Wangchuk detention case, all eyes are on whether the ruling will reaffirm citizens’ rights and set a precedent for the protection of activists in India.
–IANS
