India Supreme Court Reviews Sonam Wangchuk Detention

The India — Supreme Court of India is reviewing the detention of climate activist Sonam Wangchuk under the National Security Act 1980, asking the Centre to reconsider his confinement due to his deteriorating health. Sonam Wangchuk was detained on September 26, 2025, following violent protests in India — Ladakh demanding statehood and Sixth Schedule status, which resulted in four deaths and numerous injuries. The government of India, represented by Additional Solicitor General K.M. Nataraj and Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, has justified the detention, alleging that Sonam Wangchuk made provocative speeches and instigated violence in a sensitive border region, even referencing 'Arab Spring-like' agitations. Sonam Wangchuk, currently held in Jodhpur Central Jail, has denied these allegations, asserting his democratic right to protest and criticise. His wife, Gitanjali Angmo, filed a plea challenging the detention as illegal and a violation of his fundamental rights, with Senior advocate Kapil Sibal arguing that police relied on selective evidence. The India — Supreme Court of India observed that Sonam Wangchuk's health report was not good and suggested the government rethink the detention, with arguments set to continue.