Sonam Wangchuk Weak And Dehydrated, Hospital Says He Declines Treatment

Ladakh-based activist and educator Sonam Wangchuk has refused medical treatment after being shifted to Safdarjung Hospital in New Delhi following a 20-day hunger strike, according to a medical bulletin issued by the hospital on Saturday. Wangchuk was taken from the Jantar Mantar protest site by Delhi Police in a sudden operation and admitted to the hospital early in the morning due to concerns over his health condition. Doctors said he was showing signs of dehydration and general weakness.

The Safdarjung Hospital bulletin stated that Wangchuk has declined intravenous fluids, oral rehydration solution, and other medicines recommended by doctors. Hospital authorities said he is being kept under continuous medical observation and is being counselled to accept treatment considering the potential risks to his health. At the time of admission, the 59-year-old activist was conscious, with stable pulse, blood pressure, and oxygen saturation levels.

Wangchuk's wife, Gitanjali J Angmo, raised concerns following his hospitalisation and requested that no treatment be administered without her consent. She also sought his discharge from the hospital, alleging a lack of transparency regarding his medical care. The hospital, however, has continued monitoring his condition while medical teams assess the impact of his prolonged fast.

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Wangchuk had been observing an indefinite hunger strike at Jantar Mantar for nearly three weeks, demanding action over alleged irregularities in competitive examinations, including the NEET paper leak issue, and calling for the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. His protest attracted widespread attention, with supporters raising concerns about his health as the fast continued.

The Delhi Police action came two days after the Delhi High Court directed the Centre and the Delhi government to take all necessary steps to protect Wangchuk's life and ensure continuous monitoring of his health. Police officials said the decision to shift him to the hospital was taken in accordance with the court's directions and medical advice provided by doctors.

Doctors treating Wangchuk during his protest had earlier stated that he had lost around 9 kg during the hunger strike and warned of possible risks to vital organs due to prolonged fasting. Authorities and medical teams are continuing to monitor his condition as discussions continue over his treatment and the next steps regarding his protest.

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