Did the SC Adjourn Hearing on Sonam Wangchuk's Detention?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
The Supreme Court has postponed the hearing on a petition challenging the detention of climate activist Sonam Wangchuk under the National Security Act. Wangchuk's wife seeks to understand the grounds of his detention as the case unfolds, drawing attention to significant concerns regarding civil liberties.
Key Takeaways
- The Supreme Court is reviewing the detention of Sonam Wangchuk under the NSA.
- Wangchuk's wife is actively challenging the legality of his detention.
- The case raises significant questions about civil liberties and national security.
- Wangchuk is a noted advocate for climate issues and education.
- The Supreme Court has mandated medical care for Wangchuk in prison.
New Delhi, Oct 14 (NationPress) The Supreme Court has postponed the hearing, now set for October 15, regarding a writ petition submitted by Gitanjali J. Angmo, the spouse of Sonam Wangchuk, who is contesting the detention of the climate advocate from Leh under the National Security Act (NSA).
A panel of Justices Aravind Kumar and N.V. Anjaria rescheduled the session for Wednesday following a request for an adjournment made by senior attorney Kapil Sibal, representing Angmo.
During a prior hearing on October 6, the Justice Aravind Kumar-led bench issued a notice and requested responses from the Union government and relevant parties regarding the case.
The apex court directed the Centre to consider the possibility of providing the detention order to Wangchuk's wife, highlighting that the grounds for detention had already been communicated to the detainee himself.
This direction was prompted by Sibal’s assertion that no family member had received the grounds for detention.
Solicitor General Tushar Mehta replied, stating, "The law mandates service to the detainee, and we have fulfilled that obligation. We will look into the possibility of serving it to his wife as well."
As Sibal continued to express concerns about Wangchuk’s wife being denied visitation, Mehta countered, "Let’s not generate unnecessary hype. No one is being barred. The lawyer and brother of the detainee have visited him in jail."
He added that Wangchuk's wife’s request for a meeting was being reviewed.
SG Mehta further informed the apex court that Wangchuk "has indicated to the medical officer that he is not undergoing any treatment", labeling the situation as "hype" designed to stir emotional responses in the media.
However, the Supreme Court mandated that "the detainee shall receive necessary medical care as per existing prison regulations."
The Union Ministry of Home Affairs accused Wangchuk of inciting unrest in Leh. Wangchuk had been on a hunger strike since September 10 and broke his fast when violence erupted in the town, subsequently fleeing the scene in an ambulance. He was later detained under the NSA and transferred to a prison in Jodhpur, Rajasthan.
Wangchuk, a distinguished activist from Ladakh, is well-regarded for his contributions to education, environmental sustainability, and various social initiatives.
Point of View
It is essential to balance national security with the rights of individuals. The Supreme Court's decision to adjourn the hearing on Sonam Wangchuk's detention invites scrutiny of the mechanisms in place to protect activists and their freedoms, reinforcing the necessity for transparency and accountability in governance.
NationPress
14/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was Sonam Wangchuk detained?
Sonam Wangchuk was detained under the National Security Act for allegedly inciting violence during his hunger strike in Leh.
What does the National Security Act entail?
The National Security Act allows for preventive detention in certain cases to maintain public order and security.
Who is representing Wangchuk's wife in court?
Senior advocate Kapil Sibal is representing Gitanjali J. Angmo, Sonam Wangchuk's wife, in the Supreme Court.
What did the Supreme Court decide regarding medical attention for Wangchuk?
The Supreme Court ordered that Wangchuk should receive necessary medical attention as per existing prison rules.
What actions have been taken by the Union Ministry of Home Affairs?
The Union Ministry of Home Affairs accused Wangchuk of inciting violence and held him responsible for the unrest in Leh.
