Jodhpur Jail to Supreme Court: Sonam Wangchuk Not in Solitary Confinement Amidst Ladakh Advocacy

A pivotal clarification has been submitted to the Supreme Court by the Jodhpur Jail authorities, asserting that the renowned innovator and environmentalist Sonam Wangchuk, currently in preventive custody, has not been subjected to solitary confinement. This development addresses a significant point of contention surrounding Wangchuk's detention, which has garnered widespread attention.

Wangchuk's legal team had previously approached the Supreme Court with a plea seeking protection from potential solitary confinement, raising concerns about the conditions of his detention.

However, the affidavit presented by the Jodhpur Jail directly refutes these claims, providing a detailed account of his living arrangements within the facility.

The jail's statement confirms that Sonam Wangchuk has been held in preventive custody since April 8, 2024. The basis for his detention is attributed to allegations of promoting an agitation.

This refers to his fervent advocacy for constitutional safeguards for Ladakh, a cause for which he has undertaken impactful actions, including a notable hunger strike to press for the region's demands.

The circumstances of his continued custody also stem from his refusal to furnish a personal bond, a condition previously stipulated by the Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh High Court.

This decision led to his extended detention, setting the stage for the current legal proceedings. Despite these complexities, the Jodhpur Jail maintains that Wangchuk's conditions are not akin to solitary confinement.

According to the detailed affidavit, Sonam Wangchuk is accommodated in a separate ward, which ensures his privacy and security while he is in custody.

Furthermore, the authorities have stated that he enjoys access to various amenities, including books and television, allowing for personal engagement. The submission also highlights that he is able to receive visitors regularly and undergoes routine medical check-ups, underscoring that his well-being is actively monitored.

These details are intended to reassure both the Supreme Court and the public regarding the conditions of his preventive detention.

The Supreme Court is now poised to consider this crucial input from the Jodhpur Jail, which will undoubtedly play a significant role in the ongoing legal deliberations concerning Sonam Wangchuk's detention and the allegations surrounding his treatment and living conditions.