The Supreme Court on Monday asked the Union government and the Ladakh administration to file replies on a petition challenging the detention of climate activist and education reformer Sonam Wangchuk under the National Security Act (NSA).  The plea was filed by his wife, Gitanjali Angmo, who contends that the detention is illegal and that she has not been given the grounds for it, making it impossible for her to file a representation.

While the bench, consisting of Justices Aravind Kumar and N.V. Anjaria, issued notices to the Centre, the Ladakh administration, and Jodhpur Central Jail (where Wangchuk is held), it declined to pass any interim orders until the replies are on record and listed the matter for further hearing on October 14.

Senior advocate Kapil Sibal, representing the petitioner, emphasized that Angmo was denied access to the detention grounds and was not allowed to meet her husband.  The solicitor general, on behalf of the Centre, asserted that all procedures were legally followed and insisted there was “no violation” of rights, warning against attempts to “create hype” over the case.