New Delhi: The Supreme Court on Monday strongly objected to a remark made by the Centre while defending the continued detention of Ladakh-based climate activist Sonam Wangchuk, after the government claimed that he was receiving better medical treatment in Rajasthan than he could have received in Ladakh.
During the hearing, the Centre informed the court that there had been no progress in reviewing Wangchuk’s detention, stating that his health condition was “absolutely fine” and that he was being provided the best possible treatment at AIIMS Jodhpur.
However, the court did not agree with the tone of the submission, with one of the judges firmly stating, “No, no… you cannot say that.”
Court Questions Centre on Delay in Detention Review
A bench comprising Justice Aravind Kumar and Justice P.B. Varale questioned Additional Solicitor General K.M. Nataraj, asking whether any progress had been made in reviewing Wangchuk’s detention, especially in light of concerns regarding his health.
Justice Kumar asked the ASG directly if the review had been carried out as earlier suggested by the court.
The ASG responded that nothing had been done so far, adding that Wangchuk was receiving the best medical care in custody.
Lawyer Argues It Is Time to Reconsider Detention
Wangchuk’s counsel argued that the detention should now be reconsidered, stating that the activist was still facing health issues and that the court had already raised concerns earlier.
Justice Varale observed that even during the previous hearing, similar concerns were raised and acknowledged. The judge noted that medical reports had indicated there was indeed a health problem and treatment was ongoing.
“Jaipur Is Better Than Ladakh for Treatment”: ASG’s Comment Draws Objection
The courtroom exchange intensified when ASG Nataraj argued that Wangchuk was fully healthy and that Jaipur was a far better place for medical treatment than Ladakh, since Rajasthan had institutions like AIIMS while Ladakh lacked such facilities.
Reacting sharply, Justice Varale immediately objected and said:
“No, no… you cannot say that.”
The remark was seen as insensitive, especially given the ongoing debate around Ladakh’s development and infrastructure.
Supreme Court Refuses Further Delay
The ASG requested that the matter be taken up after Tuesday. However, the bench agreed to hear the petition on Wednesday, while clearly stating that no further adjournment would be granted.
Detention Under NSA Challenged
The hearing relates to a habeas corpus petition filed by Wangchuk’s wife Geetanjali Angmo, seeking to declare his detention under the National Security Act (NSA), 1980, illegal.
Sonam Wangchuk is currently lodged in Jodhpur Central Jail.
Arrest Linked to Ladakh Protests
Wangchuk was detained on September 26 last year, two days after violent protests erupted in Ladakh over demands for:
- Statehood for Ladakh, and
- inclusion under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution.
The protests reportedly resulted in four deaths, and the government accused Wangchuk of instigating violence.
The Supreme Court is now set to examine whether the detention is justified under the law, while also keeping a close watch on the activist’s health and the Centre’s handling of the review process.
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