K Koushal
Dr. Gitanjali J. Angmo, wife of climate activist and educator Sonam Wangchuk, has publicly appealed for the unconditional release of her husband, who has been detained since September 26, 2025.
In a series of emotional posts on X, Dr. Angmo detailed the circumstances surrounding his detention under Section 3(2) of the National Security Act (NSA), 1980, by the Deputy Commissioner of Ladakh, and raised concerns about his treatment and legal rights.
Sonam Wangchuk, the founder and CEO of the Himalayan Institute of Alternatives in Ladakh (HIAL), was arrested following a 15-day fast that concluded on September 25, 2025.
Dr. Angmo reported receiving a call from Rigzin Gurmet, SHO, Leh, on September 26, informing her of the detention and stating that Wangchuk had been shifted to Central Jail, Jodhpur, Rajasthan. She further noted that her husband was moved with ASP Rishabh Shukla and assured that no arrest had occurred, though a detention order under NSA was issued.
In her appeal addressed to the President of India, Dr. Angmo highlighted the lack of communication with her husband, stating that she has been denied the right to meet or speak with him in person or over the phone.
She expressed shock at the state’s actions, describing them as a violation of fundamental rights guaranteed under Articles 21 and 22 of the Indian Constitution, which ensure legal representation and personal liberty. “Even this minimal right has been completely denied to us,” she wrote.
Dr. Angmo also criticized the manner of the detention, alleging it contradicts the spirit of the Constitution and the principles of equity, justice, and conscience.
She emphasized Wangchuk’s peaceful activism, noting his 15-day fast to raise awareness about the fragile ecology of Ladakh and advocate for statehood and the 6th Schedule.
“A full-scale witch hunt has been unleashed for the past one month in particular, and for the past four years covertly, to kill the spirit of my husband and all the causes he stands for and espouses,” she stated.
Additionally, Dr. Angmo revealed that Wangchuk was not allowed to take his clothes during detention and has not been provided with fresh clothing or basic amenities, including meals, since September 2025, despite his weakened physical state post-fast. She urged authorities to allow her husband access to these essentials and to inform her of his condition.
In a separate post, Dr. Angmo referenced a communication from the Special Investigation Team (SIT) dated September 30, 2025, requesting a list of fellowship students, residential staff, teachers, trainees, and their details from HIAL.
She accused the state of targeting the institute and its community, calling it an attempt to suppress the peaceful Gandhian activism of Wangchuk, who she described as a “brave son of Ladakh” and a key figure in the region’s environmental and educational movements.
The activist’s detention has sparked widespread concern, with Dr. Angmo appealing to the President to intervene and ensure justice.
