The Supreme Court disposed of a habeas corpus petition challenging the detention of Ladakh-based climate activist Sonam Wangchuk, noting that the detention order had already been revoked and the relief sought had become infructuous.

A Bench of Justices Aravind Kumar and P.B. Varale was hearing a plea filed by Wangchuk’s wife, Gitanjali Angmo. The Court took note of the Central government’s decision to revoke the detention on March 14, following which Wangchuk was released.

Observing that the detention order no longer subsisted, the Court held that the challenge had ‘spent itself’ and therefore did not warrant further adjudication.

During the hearing, Senior Advocate Kapil Sibal, appearing for Wangchuk, requested the Court to keep the matter pending and adjourn it for consideration after the Ram Navami holidays. However, the Bench declined the request, remarking that no issue survived for consideration.