Supreme Court Hears Sonam Wangchuk's Detention Case Amid Calls for Release

The Supreme Court recently held a hearing on the detention of Sonam Wangchuk, a prominent social activist from Ladakh, who has been imprisoned for over 100 days. His lawyer, Kapil Sibal, argued that the legal grounds for his detention were not provided within the required timeframe, raising significant concerns about the adherence to legal protocols. The case draws parallels to historical events involving civil disobedience, emphasizing the importance of protecting individual rights. The next hearing is set for January 12, as the court continues to examine the implications of Wangchuk's detention under the National Security Act.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jan 10, 2026, 14:13 IST

Overview of the Case

The film '3 Idiots', released in 2009, is a memorable classic for many. The lead character, Phunsukh Wangdu, portrayed by Aamir Khan, is unforgettable, especially with his motto of pursuing excellence over mere success. This character was inspired by Sonam Wangchuk from Ladakh, who has recently been in jail for over 100 days. Wangchuk, a social activist, was arrested during the recent violence in Ladakh. On January 8, the Supreme Court held a hearing regarding a petition demanding his release, which took place nearly four months after his arrest. Various arguments were presented during the hearing, and the date for the next hearing was postponed.

Kapil Sibal's Arguments in Court

During the January 8 hearing, Kapil Sibal, representing Wangchuk, argued that the reasons for his detention were provided 28 days after his arrest, violating legal time limits. He stated that the detention order issued on September 29 lacked sufficient grounds. Evidence in the form of four videos was not provided on the 29th, and the police only shared links to these videos later. A laptop was given on October 5, but the pen drive provided on the 29th did not contain the crucial videos. According to the law, if reliable documents supporting the detention are not supplied, the detention order should be annulled.

Historical Context Referenced

Sibal referenced the Supreme Court's previous rulings, noting that similar situations have occurred in history. He showed a video of Wangchuk's speech, drawing parallels to Mahatma Gandhi's actions during the Chauri Chaura incident, emphasizing that Wangchuk's speech did not pose any threat to state security. The next hearing for this case is scheduled for January 12.

Supreme Court's Inquiry into Wangchuk's Detention

The Supreme Court also heard a habeas corpus petition filed by Dr. Geetanjali Angmo, challenging Wangchuk's detention under the National Security Act of 1980. Wangchuk was detained following violent protests in Ladakh. Senior advocate Kapil Sibal represented the petitioner in Justice Arvind Kumar's court. Sibal cited the Khudiram Das case, asserting that it is the court's duty to ensure that all legal protections are strictly followed and that no individual can be deprived of personal liberty except under constitutional and legal provisions.