New Delhi, February 11: The Supreme Court held a hearing on Wednesday regarding the detention of social activist and environmentalist Sonam Wangchuk. During the proceedings, the central government informed the court that releasing Wangchuk on health grounds is not feasible.
Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, representing the government, presented before Justices Arvind Kumar and Prasanna B. Varale, stating that Wangchuk’s medical condition has been reviewed periodically, and there are no significant concerns justifying his release.
Opposing any medical exemptions, Mehta told the Supreme Court, “It is not possible to release him on health grounds, nor is it desirable. We have thoroughly considered this matter.”
The government’s attorney mentioned, “We have assessed his health 24 times. He is healthy and fit. He had some digestive issues, but they are being treated. There is no cause for concern. Nothing alarming exists. We cannot create such exceptions.”
Wangchuk’s detention under the National Security Act (NSA) is being challenged by his wife, Geetanjali, in the Supreme Court. During the hearing, the government reiterated that Wangchuk cannot be released.
The bench, led by Justice Kumar, noted that Wangchuk has been in custody since September 26, 2025, and suggested that the government consider whether it is necessary to continue his detention.
Earlier this week, the Supreme Court warned against further delays in the case and rejected the request for additional time from the government’s legal representatives.
In a previous hearing on Monday, the Supreme Court had urged the government to reconsider the decision to keep Sonam Wangchuk in custody, given his declining health and advancing age.
The government had maintained that Wangchuk is in good health and is receiving the best treatment at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences in Jodhpur while in detention.
Wangchuk is currently incarcerated in Jodhpur Central Jail. He was detained on September 26 last year, just two days after violent protests demanding statehood for Ladakh and inclusion in the Sixth Schedule resulted in four deaths. The government has accused him of inciting violence.
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