The Supreme Court on Monday expressed visible dissatisfaction with the Union government’s response on the continued detention of Ladakh-based activist Sonam Wangchuk, especially in light of repeated concerns about his health. While the Centre told the court that Wangchuk is “perfectly fine” and receiving the best medical care, the judges made it clear that the matter could not be pushed aside any longer.
The case came up before a Bench of Justices Aravind Kumar and P.B. Varale, which is hearing a habeas corpus petition challenging Wangchuk’s detention under the National Security Act (NSA), 1980.
Read also:- Humiliation Is Not Justice: Allahabad High Court Strikes Down Placard Punishment for Student
Background of the Case
Wangchuk has been in detention since September 26 last year, following protests in Ladakh demanding statehood and Sixth Schedule status. The government has alleged that he played a role in instigating violence during those protests.
The present petition has been filed by his wife, Dr. Gitanjali J. Angmo, seeking his release and declaring the detention illegal. One of the key grounds raised before the court is Wangchuk’s deteriorating health while in custody.
Earlier, the Supreme Court had asked the Centre to reconsider the detention, particularly since Wangchuk has already spent about five months behind bars.
What Happened in Court Today
As the Bench was about to rise for lunch, Additional Solicitor General K.M. Nataraj sought an adjournment, stating he was engaged in another matter scheduled post-lunch. The judges were not convinced.
Justice Aravind Kumar reminded the Centre that the case had already been delayed multiple times at its request. He then directly asked whether any progress had been made on reviewing Wangchuk’s detention, as earlier suggested by the court.
“What happened? Any progress? Has it been done?” Justice Kumar asked.
The response was blunt. “No, nothing has been done,” the ASG replied.
This drew a sharp reaction from the Bench.
Court’s Observations
The Centre told the court that Wangchuk is currently undergoing treatment at AIIMS Jodhpur and that his health condition is “perfectly good.”
The judges, however, were not persuaded.
Justice Varale pointed out that even the medical records showed health issues. “The doctor says yes, it is there, and now treatment is being provided. Admittedly, the health issue is there,” he observed, recalling the court’s earlier request to reconsider the detention.
When the ASG argued that Wangchuk was better off receiving treatment in Rajasthan than in Ladakh, Justice Varale immediately objected. “No, no, you can’t say that,” he said.
Justice Kumar also reminded the Centre of the seriousness of the matter. “This is habeas corpus. You should understand that. You can’t keep asking for time,” he remarked.
Petitioner’s Stand
Lawyers appearing for Wangchuk’s family told the court that his condition remains poor and has not shown improvement. They argued that continuing detention despite health concerns defeats the very safeguards meant to protect personal liberty.
Earlier, senior advocate Kapil Sibal, appearing for Angmo, had sought a specialist medical examination after Wangchuk complained of persistent stomach pain, allegedly due to contaminated water.
Read also:- Calcutta High Court Revives Dowry Death Case, Orders In-Laws to Face Trial in Andaman Mother
Court’s Decision
Despite its strong observations, the Supreme Court agreed to post the matter for further hearing on Wednesday. However, the Bench made its position clear.
No further adjournments will be granted.
With that, the court ended the hearing, keeping the focus firmly on the legality of Wangchuk’s detention and the unresolved concerns over his health.
Case Title: Gitanjali J. Angmo v Union of India & Ors
Case No.: W.P. (Crl.) No. 399/2025
Case Type: Habeas Corpus Petition
Decision Date: February 9, 2026
