Sonam Wangchuk's wife shares their first uncaged conversation post-release
What's the story
Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk was released from Jodhpur Central Jail on Saturday after the Union government revoked his detention under the National Security Act (NSA). His wife, Geetanjali J Angmo, took to social media to share their first relaxed conversation after months of restricted jail meetings. "After a long time had a free-flowing chat with @Wangchuk66 without glancing at the scary clock every now and then," she wrote.
Detention details
Wangchuk detained under NSA since September 2025
Wangchuk was detained on September 26, 2025, under the NSA after violent protests in Ladakh. The protests were demanding statehood for Ladakh and its inclusion under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution. The unrest left over 45 people injured, including 22 police personnel. Authorities accused Wangchuk of inciting violence with provocative speeches during his campaign and hunger strike in support of these demands.
Revocation rationale
Government hoped to promote peace and stability in Ladakh
The Union Home Ministry decided to revoke Wangchuk's detention to promote peace and stability in Ladakh. The government hoped this would help build mutual trust and enable constructive dialogue with all stakeholders. Rajya Sabha MP Vivek Tankha, who led the legal battle for Wangchuk's release, welcomed the government's decision. "Sonam's actions were misunderstood. He is an icon of climate change and glaciers," Tankha said.
Family impact
Angmo shares emotional message on social media
Angmo described the emotional process of informing her husband about his release in a message on social media. She thanked people in Jodhpur for their support and expressed relief that her husband's "ordeal of being inside the jail for 170 days" had ended. Angmo also spoke about how difficult it was for their family during this time, making weekly trips to see him at the prison.
Twitter Post
Gitanjali Angmo's social media post after Sonam Wangchuk's release
After a long time had a free flowing chat with @Wangchuk66 without glancing at the scary clock every now and then to make the most of the fleeting 60 minutes as in jail!
— Gitanjali J Angmo (@GitanjaliAngmo) March 15, 2026
Taking him for a health checkup as per the strong recommendations of our family doctor. He will be under… pic.twitter.com/I4IKOUsoV9
Activism pledge
Wangchuk committed to cause of Ladakh
Even after his release, Wangchuk remained committed to the cause of Ladakh. He had written on social media that while he would continue his activism, he believed that "clarity, unity and sincere dialogue" were needed for the region's future. The Supreme Court of India has adjourned a hearing on a petition challenging Wangchuk's detention till March 17.