Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk was shifted to a hospital from Delhi's Jantar Mantar early on Saturday after completing 20 days of his indefinite hunger strike, following concerns over his deteriorating health. The police action came in compliance with directions issued by the Delhi High Court and on the advice of medical experts.
According to a statement issued by the Delhi Police, Wangchuk was moved to hospital after his health condition worsened during the prolonged fast. "Sonam Wangchuk has been shifted to the hospital for essential medical care," the statement said, adding that the decision was taken in accordance with the High Court's orders and expert medical advice.
Sonam Wangchuk and his wife
Reports said the 59-year-old activist has been admitted to Delhi's Safdarjung Hospital. Doctors stated that he remains conscious and his vital parameters are stable.
Minor commotion ensues during police action
Police also appealed to protesters gathered at Jantar Mantar to vacate the site peacefully. Officials said some demonstrators attempted to obstruct the operation, resulting in a brief commotion. However, they maintained that personnel exercised maximum restraint while ensuring Wangchuk was safely shifted to hospital.
The action came ahead of a scheduled hearing in the Delhi High Court regarding Wangchuk's worsening health. Earlier this week, the court directed authorities to conduct daily clinical examinations of the activist, observing that "the life of any citizen is precious" and stressing that all necessary medical intervention should be provided to safeguard his life.
Cops shifting Wangchuk to hospital
Doctors warned of serious health risks
Medical bulletins released over the past several days had consistently raised concerns about Wangchuk's condition. Doctors who examined him on Friday reportedly described his health as an emergency, warning of the possibility of organ failure. Earlier medical updates had stated that he had lost more than eight kilograms during the hunger strike.
Wangchuk has been fasting to demand the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over the alleged NEET paper leak. Several Opposition leaders, including Congress leader Pawan Khera, Samajwadi Party MP Dimple Yadav and Aam Aadmi Party chief Arvind Kejriwal, met him in recent days, expressing solidarity while urging him to end his fast due to his declining health.
The protest, organised by the online satirical movement Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) under founder Abhijeet Dipke, seeks educational reforms and Pradhan's resignation, alleging he should take moral responsibility for the NEET paper leak. The protesters have also announced a march to Parliament on July 20, the opening day of the Monsoon Session, and appealed to political parties to join the demonstration.