Centre Assures Supreme Court About Detained Activist Sonam Wangchuk's Health Condition
The Union government on Monday informed the Supreme Court that detained climate activist and educationist Sonam Wangchuk is in "perfectly good" health and is receiving the "best possible treatment" from the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in Jodhpur while remaining in custody. This statement came during a crucial hearing regarding Wangchuk's detention under the stringent National Security Act (NSA).
Background of Wangchuk's Detention and Legal Proceedings
Wangchuk has been lodged in a Jodhpur jail in Rajasthan since September last year in connection with his alleged involvement in the deadly pro-statehood protests in his native Ladakh region. The National Security Act permits preventive detention without formal charges or trial for periods extending up to twelve months, making it one of India's most stringent security laws.
The Supreme Court is currently hearing a plea filed by Wangchuk's wife, social entrepreneur Gitanjali Angmo, seeking a judicial declaration that his ongoing detention is "illegal" and should be immediately terminated. The bench comprising Justice Aravind Kumar and Justice PB Varale is overseeing this significant constitutional matter.
Courtroom Exchanges and Health Concerns
At the outset of Monday's hearing, Justice Kumar directly questioned Additional Solicitor General KM Nataraj, representing the Union government, about whether any progress had been made regarding the bench's previous request to review Wangchuk's detention in light of his reportedly deteriorating health. "What happened? Any progress? Has it been done?" Justice Kumar inquired pointedly.
ASG Nataraj responded, "I will submit... Nothing has been done as of now. He is getting the best of treatment." He further elaborated that Jaipur offers superior medical facilities compared to Ladakh, noting specifically that AIIMS Rajasthan provides comprehensive healthcare that would not have been available in Wangchuk's home region.
Counsel representing Wangchuk countered that it was "high time" to reconsider the 59-year-old activist's detention, emphasizing that he continues to experience health issues despite medical attention. Justice Varale acknowledged these concerns, stating, "There are issues, and it's not like you are not denying it, and he is also making a complaint of health issues. The doctor says yes, it is there, and now treatment is being provided."
Medical Examination and Previous Court Observations
This hearing followed the Supreme Court's significant observation on February 4 that Wangchuk's health report was "not good," which prompted the Centre to consider whether his detention could be reviewed given his medical condition. Earlier, senior advocate Kapil Sibal, appearing for Angmo, had moved an application seeking specialized medical examination for Wangchuk, citing his frequent complaints of stomach pain possibly caused by contaminated water.
Pursuant to the court's directions, Wangchuk underwent thorough examination by doctors at AIIMS Jodhpur, and a comprehensive medical report was subsequently submitted to the Supreme Court for judicial consideration.
Political Context and Wangchuk's Defense
Wangchuk has consistently rejected allegations by both the Union government and Ladakh administration that he called for the "overthrow" of the government, comparing his activities to movements such as the Arab Spring and recent youth-led protests in neighboring Bangladesh and Sri Lanka. The activist has maintained that he was merely exercising his "democratic right" to criticize government policies and participate in peaceful protest activities.
The bench has posted the plea for further hearing on Wednesday and made it unequivocally clear that no further adjournments would be granted in this matter, indicating the court's determination to reach a timely resolution.
