SC declines plea challenging SCBA resolution supporting Sonam Wangchuk's hunger strike

Supreme Court refuses to hear plea against SCBA resolution backing Sonam Wangchuk's hunger strike

The Supreme Court on Tuesday declined to entertain a petition challenging a resolution adopted by the Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA) in support of climate activist Sonam Wangchuk's hunger strike.

A bench of the apex court refused to interfere with the Bar Association's decision, effectively allowing the resolution to remain in force.

The plea had questioned the SCBA's decision to publicly support Wangchuk's protest, arguing that such resolutions were beyond the scope of a professional body representing advocates.

Court declines to intervene

During the hearing, the Supreme Court made it clear that it was not inclined to examine the validity of the SCBA's internal resolution.

The bench declined to entertain the petition, signalling that the matter did not warrant judicial intervention.

With the court refusing to hear the plea, the SCBA's resolution expressing solidarity with Wangchuk's ongoing hunger strike remains unaffected.

Background of the controversy

The Supreme Court Bar Association had earlier passed a resolution expressing concern over Sonam Wangchuk's hunger strike and extending support to his demands.

The resolution became a subject of legal challenge, with the petitioner contending that the association should refrain from adopting positions on political or public policy issues unrelated to the legal profession.

Supporters of the resolution, however, argued that bar associations have historically voiced opinions on matters concerning constitutional rights, civil liberties and issues of public importance.

Wangchuk's protest

Sonam Wangchuk's hunger strike has drawn nationwide attention, with activists, lawyers, students and several political leaders expressing solidarity with his campaign.

His protest has centred on issues relating to governance, environmental protection and constitutional safeguards, prompting demonstrations and public discussions across the country.

The Supreme Court's refusal to entertain the plea means the SCBA's resolution will continue to stand unless challenged through other legal avenues.