Government Firmly Opposes Medical Release of Climate Activist Sonam Wangchuk
The central government has taken a firm stance against the release of prominent climate activist Sonam Wangchuk on medical grounds, telling the Supreme Court that the detained activist is "hale and hearty" and merely suffering from a minor infection. This submission came during a crucial hearing on Wednesday before a bench comprising Justices Aravind Kumar and PB Varale.
Government's Detailed Arguments Against Release
Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, representing the government, presented comprehensive arguments opposing any reconsideration of Wangchuk's detention. "He has been examined periodically some 24 times as per the jail manual. He is fit and hearty," Mehta stated emphatically before the court. The government's position is that Wangchuk's digestive issue constitutes only a minor infection that doesn't warrant exceptional treatment.
The government expressed serious concerns about setting precedents, with Mehta arguing that "if we start making such exceptions to release him, it will not lead to a positive outcome." The Solicitor General emphasized that the original grounds for Wangchuk's detention under the National Security Act remain valid and compelling.
Supreme Court's Previous Directions and Current Proceedings
The Supreme Court had previously directed authorities to conduct Wangchuk's medical examination by a specialized doctor and submit a detailed report. Last week, the apex court observed that the medical condition of the climate activist, who has been in detention for more than four months, was not optimal and asked the Centre to reconsider its decision to continue his custody.
During the latest hearing, the medical report was formally placed before the court. The government maintained that despite the court's suggestion, releasing Wangchuk on health grounds would be neither possible nor desirable. "The grounds on which the detention order was passed continue. It will not be possible to release him on health grounds," Mehta reiterated.
Background of Wangchuk's Detention and Legal Proceedings
Sonam Wangchuk was detained on September 26, 2023, under the National Security Act following violent protests in Leh that resulted in four fatalities and more than 150 injuries. The protests centered around demands for statehood and Sixth Schedule status for Ladakh, issues that have generated significant political and social tension in the region.
The Supreme Court is currently hearing a plea filed by Wangchuk's wife, Gitanjali Angmo, challenging his preventive detention. In earlier proceedings, the government had presented arguments suggesting that Wangchuk was attempting to create political and social turmoil in Ladakh, drawing parallels to events in neighboring countries.
Current Status and Location
The climate activist remains lodged in Jodhpur jail, where he has been detained for over four months. The government's consistent position has been that Wangchuk represents a threat to public order and national security, necessitating his continued detention despite health considerations.
The Supreme Court's intervention and the government's response highlight the complex intersection of health concerns, legal procedures, and national security considerations in cases involving prominent activists detained under preventive laws.
