Why is Climate Activist Sonam Wangchuk Facing Detention? A Deep Dive into the Controversy

The Supreme Court is currently deliberating on the detention of climate activist Sonam Wangchuk, who has been accused of inciting unrest in a sensitive border area. The government claims that Wangchuk's actions pose a threat to national security, while his wife argues that his detention is arbitrary and violates his rights. As the case unfolds, it raises significant questions about freedom of expression and the treatment of activists in India. Stay tuned for updates on this developing story.

By Narendra Chaudhary Feb 3, 2026, 18:13 IST

Supreme Court Hears Arguments on Sonam Wangchuk's Detention

New Delhi: On Tuesday, the Supreme Court was informed by the Central Government and the Ladakh administration that climate activist Sonam Wangchuk was detained due to his alleged incitement of unrest in a sensitive border region.

Solicitor General Tushar Mehta defended the detention, stating that all necessary legal protocols were adhered to under the National Security Act (NSA).

Mehta emphasized the seriousness of the situation, noting that Wangchuk's actions could potentially destabilize the area adjacent to Pakistan and China.

He asserted that Wangchuk had been treated fairly and that the NSA's provisions were meticulously followed.

The court proceedings are ongoing, with discussions expected to resume on Wednesday.

Earlier, the government accused Wangchuk of attempting to mobilize the younger generation for protests similar to those seen in Nepal and Bangladesh.

Mehta also mentioned that Wangchuk had alluded to the Arab Spring, which resulted in the fall of several governments in the Arab world.

The Supreme Court is currently reviewing a petition from Gitanjali J Angmo, Wangchuk's wife, challenging his detention under the NSA.

This legislation allows for the detention of individuals deemed a threat to India's defense, with a maximum detention period of 12 months, although it can be lifted sooner.

Wangchuk, who is currently held in Jodhpur Central Jail, has denied claims that he advocated for a government overthrow akin to the Arab Spring, asserting his right to protest and voice criticism.

Senior advocate Kapil Sibal argued that the police relied on misleading evidence and selectively edited videos to justify the detention.

Angmo contends that Wangchuk's detention is unlawful and an arbitrary infringement of his fundamental rights.

Wangchuk was taken into custody on September 26, following violent protests that resulted in four fatalities and 90 injuries in Ladakh, where the government accused him of inciting the unrest.

Angmo's petition argues that it is absurd to target Wangchuk after over three decades of recognition for his contributions to education, innovation, and environmental conservation.

She stated that the violence in Leh on September 24 cannot be attributed to Wangchuk's actions or statements.

Wangchuk himself condemned the violence on social media, stating that such actions would undermine the peaceful efforts in Ladakh, calling it one of the saddest days of his life.