Geetanjali Angmo, wife of prominent climate activist Sonam Wangchuk, visited him in Jodhpur Central Jail on Tuesday. Wangchuk has been detained following the September 24 Leh violence, garnering national attention amid rising concerns for climate activism and legal rights.
On her visit, Angmo was accompanied by lawyer Ritam Khare. She reported that Wangchuk’s legal team successfully obtained a copy of his detention order, which they plan to challenge in court.
This detention order outlines the allegations against Wangchuk, detailing how authorities invoked the National Security Act (NSA) against him. Angmo emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating that they will fight the charges based on the document’s contents.
Wangchuk’s brother, Tsetan Dorje, also met with him last Saturday, accompanied by lawyer Mustafa Haji. Following his visit, Haji took to X to share that Wangchuk insists on an independent judicial inquiry into the killings of four individuals during the protests in Leh.
“Wangchuk has expressed his willingness to remain in jail until such an inquiry is conducted,” Haji stated. This bold stance illustrates Wangchuk’s commitment to social and environmental justice in Ladakh.
In addition, Angmo has filed a petition in the Supreme Court, advocating for her husband’s immediate release. The hearing on this plea is set for October 14, indicating the urgency of the situation.
Wangchuk, known for his efforts for environmental preservation and community rights in Ladakh, was detained after violent clashes erupted during a protest demanding statehood for Ladakh and recognition under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution. His work has made him a significant figure in the movement for environmental and social causes.
Post-detention, Wangchuk initially faced authorities in Delhi before being transferred to Jodhpur Central Jail on September 26. The circumstances surrounding his arrest and ongoing detention raise critical discussions about the rights of activists in India.
The escalating tensions exemplify the delicate balance between state security and the right to peaceful protest, especially on pivotal issues such as environmental preservation. As public interest grows, the upcoming Supreme Court hearing may set a significant precedent for similar cases in the future.
