Supreme Court Issues Notice In Habeas Corpus Plea Of Sonam Wangchuk's Wife Challenging His Detention Under NSA

Today, the Supreme Court, issued notice in the Habeas Corpus Plea filed by Gitanjali J. Angmo, wife of Climate Activist Sonam Wangchuk, challenging his detention under National Security Act. The Court orally remarked that it will not pass orders at this stage.

The Bench of Justice Aravind Kumar and Justice N.V. Anjaria heard the matter and issued notice to Union of India, Union Territory of Ladakh and Deputy Commissioner and listed the matter on Monday.

Senior Advocate Kapil Sibal, appearing for the wife of Wangchuk, requested the Court that the grounds of detention could be provided to the wife and said, "In meantime, what has happened is that we cannot file anything because we have to filea representation. They have given it to the detenue. They can nevertheless supply to it us immediately."

Upon which, Solicitor General of India, Tushar Mehta, apprised the Court that the grounds of detention were already supplied to Wangchuk and he had a meeting with his lawyer.

Sibal informed that Wangchuk was only allowed to communicate via intercom, thus, they could not get any documents.

"Mr. Sibal you cannot get anything at this stage", said Justice Kumar.

Upon which, Sibal referred to the judgements of the Supreme Court wherein it was recorded that the family members of the detenue has to be supplied with the grounds of arrest.

Justice Kumar pointed out Section 8 of the National Security Act, which provides that the grounds of detention is to be provided to the detenue.

"We will pass any orders at this stage", Justice Kumar said. To which Sibal said, "There are two Judgments is this Court" and Justice Kumar replied, "Not at this stage."

Thereafter, Sibal requested, in such a case, Wangchuk can be allowed to serve the grounds of detention to his wife.

Justice Kumar asked SG why they don't want to serve the grounds of detention to wife, when it's already been served to Wangchuk.

"I don't wish them to create a new ground of challenge that it wasn't served on others. The law requires the service on the detenue and it is made", submitted SG. 

Justice Kumar asked, "What's the impediment of serving the grounds of detention to the wife of detenue?"

To which SG replied, "Nothing is preventing us. I will examine."

The Court recorded in its Order that the SG would submit the feasibility of serving the copy of grounds of detention upon the wife.

Accordingly, the matter will be heard on Monday.

Cause Title: Gitanjali J. Angmo V. Union Of India (W.P.(Crl.) No. 399/2025X)