SupremeCourt – Detention Case Against Activist Wangchuk Closed by Apex Court
SupremeCourt – The Supreme Court has brought closure to a petition concerning the detention of climate activist Sonam Wangchuk after the government withdrew its earlier order.
The Supreme Court on Monday concluded proceedings on a petition filed by Gitanjali J Angmo, who had challenged the detention of her husband, noted climate campaigner Sonam Wangchuk, under the National Security Act. The court observed that there was no further issue to adjudicate following the Centre’s decision to revoke the detention order earlier this month.
Court Notes Government’s Decision to Withdraw Detention
A bench comprising Justices Aravind Kumar and PB Varale took into account the submission made by the central government, which confirmed that Wangchuk’s detention order had been withdrawn on March 14. In light of this development, the bench stated that the matter had effectively become infructuous and required no further judicial intervention.
The case had earlier drawn attention during hearings when the court questioned the government about reconsidering the detention, particularly in view of Wangchuk’s reported health concerns. The bench had indicated that the circumstances warranted a review, prompting a response from the Centre.
Detention Revoked After Nearly Six Months
The government officially rescinded the detention order with immediate effect on March 14, ending a period of nearly six months during which Wangchuk remained under custody. His detention had been carried out under provisions of the National Security Act, a law that allows preventive detention in certain circumstances related to national security and public order.
Wangchuk had been taken into custody on September 26, 2025, shortly after unrest broke out in Leh. The protests, which turned violent, were linked to ongoing demands for granting full statehood to Ladakh and bringing the region under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution, which provides safeguards for tribal areas.
Background of Protests in Leh
The demonstrations in Leh had escalated significantly, resulting in casualties and injuries. At least four individuals lost their lives during the clashes, while more than 45 people were reported injured. Among those injured were 22 police personnel, highlighting the intensity of the confrontation between protestors and law enforcement agencies.
Authorities had invoked the National Security Act amid concerns over law and order, leading to Wangchuk’s detention shortly after the protests intensified. His arrest and subsequent detention had sparked discussions among activists and civil society groups, particularly regarding the use of preventive detention laws in such cases.
Petition Filed by Wangchuk’s Wife
Gitanjali J Angmo had approached the Supreme Court seeking relief against her husband’s detention, arguing for its review. The petition brought the matter before the apex court, which then sought clarification from the government regarding its stance and the possibility of reconsideration.
With the Centre’s decision to withdraw the detention order, the legal challenge effectively lost its basis, leading to the closure of proceedings.
No Further Legal Action Required
The Supreme Court’s decision to dispose of the case marks the end of judicial scrutiny in this matter. Since the detention order no longer exists, the court stated that there was nothing remaining to be addressed in the petition.
The development brings closure to a case that had raised questions about preventive detention and the balance between maintaining public order and safeguarding individual rights.