The Supreme Court is set to proceed with the government’s arguments regarding the detention of Ladakh-based social activist Sonam Wangchuk under the National Security Act (NSA). Wangchuk’s wife, Dr. Gitanjali Angmo, filed a habeas corpus petition, labeling his detention as “illegal” and a violation of his fundamental rights. The bench, led by Justices Aravind Kumar and P.B. Varale, noted that Wangchuk has been in custody since September 26, 2025, with concerns raised about his health condition.
During the hearing, the bench suggested to Additional Solicitor General (ASG) K.M. Nataraj to reconsider the necessity of Wangchuk’s continued detention. ASG Nataraj defended the detention, emphasizing that the NSA serves preventive purposes and is not punitive in nature. He highlighted that Wangchuk’s speech in September 2025 had incited violent protests in Leh, leading to casualties and injuries. The bench indicated that if the basis of the detention order is legally flawed, subsequent actions would be invalidated.
In response to the court’s concerns, ASG Nataraj assured that he would seek instructions from the authorities regarding Wangchuk’s detention. The Supreme Court stressed that if the detention order is revoked, all subsequent actions would be nullified. Earlier, the court had ordered a medical examination of Wangchuk due to health issues, with the report submitted in a sealed cover for review.
