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Centre Defends Wangchuk Detention in Supreme Court

  //health-fitness.news-articles.net/content/2026/ .. defends-wangchuk-detention-in-supreme-court.html
  Published in Health and Fitness on Wednesday, February 11th 2026 at 7:03 GMT by The New Indian Express
      Locales: Arunachal Pradesh, Delhi, INDIA

New Delhi, February 11th, 2026 - The Centre today staunchly defended its decision to detain environmental activist Sonam Wangchuk, informing the Supreme Court that his medical condition does not warrant release on health grounds. The case, unfolding against the backdrop of increasing concerns over glacial melt in the Himalayas and a growing climate movement, has ignited debate about the balance between civil disobedience and national security.

Wangchuk, a prominent figure in Ladakh and renowned for his pioneering work on sustainable development and climate adaptation, has been in detention for several months as part of a prolonged protest demanding greater governmental action to address the accelerating rate of glacial melt in the fragile Himalayan ecosystem. His protest, characterized by a symbolic 'fast until death' and a refusal to leave his isolated location near the glaciers, aims to galvanize public and political attention to the looming environmental crisis.

Today's hearing stemmed from a petition filed by Wangchuk seeking his release from detention in Leh. His legal team argued that his health was deteriorating due to the conditions of his protest and detention, requesting urgent medical intervention and release. Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, appearing for the Centre, countered these claims, stating that a medical report received from authorities indicated that Wangchuk's condition was "not alarming."

"The report unequivocally states that there is no immediate threat to Mr. Wangchuk's life, and therefore, releasing him based solely on health concerns is not justified," Mehta told the court. He further emphasized that the government recognizes Wangchuk's contributions to environmental conservation but maintained that his methods of protest and prolonged detention raised concerns about maintaining law and order in the sensitive region.

The case highlights a growing trend of climate activists resorting to increasingly drastic measures to force governments to address the climate crisis. Wangchuk's protest builds on a legacy of environmental disobedience, echoing historical movements like the Chipko movement in India and the more recent actions of groups like Extinction Rebellion. However, it also raises complex legal and ethical questions about the limits of protest and the state's right to maintain order.

Ladakh, a high-altitude desert region, is particularly vulnerable to the effects of climate change. Glacial melt is not only threatening water supplies for local communities but also increasing the risk of glacial lake outburst floods (GLOFs), which can devastate downstream areas. Wangchuk's central demand is for the implementation of the 6th Schedule of the Constitution, granting greater autonomy and environmental safeguards to Ladakh, and the establishment of a dedicated fund for climate change mitigation and adaptation in the region. He argues that without such measures, Ladakh's unique cultural heritage and fragile ecosystem face imminent destruction.

The Centre, while acknowledging the urgency of addressing climate change in Ladakh, has maintained that negotiations with Wangchuk and local representatives are ongoing. They argue that his unilateral protest and the current legal battle are hindering these efforts and creating an atmosphere of mistrust. Sources within the government suggest they are considering alternative approaches to address the concerns raised by Wangchuk, including increased investment in renewable energy projects and the establishment of a dedicated task force to monitor glacial melt.

The Supreme Court has reserved its judgment, promising a decision in the coming days. The outcome of this case could have far-reaching implications for the right to protest, the government's handling of environmental activism, and the future of climate policy in India. The court's decision will be closely watched not only by environmental groups and legal experts but also by communities across the Himalayas who are on the front lines of the climate crisis. The situation in Ladakh remains tense, with local communities rallying in support of Wangchuk and demanding greater government action. The delicate balance between protecting the environment, upholding the law, and respecting the rights of peaceful protest hangs precariously in the balance.