New Delhi/Srinagar, Oct 6: A day after the Supreme Court issued a notice to the Central Government on a petition challenging the detention of Ladakh’s renowned education reformer and climate activist Sonam Wangchuk under the National Security Act (NSA), his wife Gitanjali Angmo expressed gratitude to the apex court, reaffirming her faith in India’s Constitution and judiciary. Taking to social media, Angmo wrote, “I am grateful to the Supreme Court for issuing notice. Will be in Jodhpur to meet Sonam Wangchuk and obtain grounds of detention to prepare for the hearing next Tuesday! I have faith in the Constitution, judicial system, and the people of India!” Her statement came hours after a bench comprising Justice Aravind Kumar and Justice NV Anjaria issued notice to the Centre on a writ petition filed under Article 32, which seeks Wangchuk’s release and challenges his detention as unconstitutional. The plea, filed by Angmo, contends that neither she nor Wangchuk has been provided the formal grounds for his detention — a violation of Article 22 of the Constitution. During the hearing, Senior Advocate Kapil Sibal, appearing for the petitioner, urged the court to direct authorities to share the grounds of detention with Wangchuk’s wife. However, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, representing the Centre, argued that the grounds had already been served on the detenu and that the law did not mandate their disclosure to family members. The Court has listed the matter for further hearing on October 14, directing both parties to submit necessary clarifications. Sources close to the Wangchuk family confirmed that Angmo will travel to Jodhpur jail, where her husband is reportedly lodged, to meet him and prepare for the upcoming court hearing. She is also expected to seek access to medical and legal assistance for Wangchuk. Wangchuk, a Ramon Magsaysay Award nominee and a prominent voice for sustainable development and Ladakh’s autonomy, was detained following violent clashes in the Union Territory last month. His arrest has sparked widespread debate, with civil society groups and student organizations demanding transparency and fair legal treatment. As the legal battle progresses, Angmo’s public statement has drawn widespread support from across India, with activists and citizens hailing her courage and reaffirming confidence in judicial redress.
