In a major legal update, the Supreme Court has asked the Central Government to respond to a petition filed by Gitanjali Angmo, wife of Ladakh-based activist and education reformer Sonam Wangchuk. The petition challenges Wangchuk’s detention under the National Security Act (NSA), 1980, following recent violent incidents in Ladakh. The case is set for hearing on October 14, 2025.
Background:
Sonam Wangchuk, known for his innovative education projects in Ladakh, is reportedly detained and currently in Jodhpur Central Jail. His wife, Gitanjali Angmo, has filed a habeas corpus petition under Article 32 of the Constitution, asking for his release. The petition says the detention is illegal under Article 22, as neither Wangchuk nor his wife has been given the reasons for his arrest. The Union Government, Ladakh Administration, and Jodhpur Jail authorities are all respondents in the petition.
At the first hearing, Senior Advocate Kapil Sibal, representing Angmo, argued that the reasons for detention should be given to her since she is directly affected. Without this information, he said, it is hard to check if the detention is legal. Solicitor General Tushar Mehta replied that there is no rule to provide the reasons to the wife, only to the person detained. He said the petition is trying to add a new reason for challenge.
Justice Aravind Kumar asked if it was possible to give the reasons to Angmo and asked the Solicitor General to clarify any problems in doing so. The Solicitor General agreed to check the matter.
Wangchuk’s detention has sparked public debate, especially after the unrest in Ladakh. Known for his work in sustainable development and education, his arrest has raised concerns about how the NSA is used and its effect on civil rights.
The Supreme Court’s move shows its role in protecting individual rights and ensuring preventive detentions are checked. The October 14 hearing will be closely watched, as it could affect how NSA cases are handled in the future.
