Climate activist and education reformer Sonam Wangchuk was shifted to Delhi’s Safdarjung Hospital by the Delhi Police early Saturday after his health deteriorated on the 21st day of his indefinite hunger strike.
Wangchuk was admitted to the hospital’s emergency ward, where hospital sources said he was conscious and his vital parameters were stable.
The 59-year-old had been observing an indefinite fast at Jantar Mantar since June 28 in support of a youth-led protest against alleged irregularities in competitive examinations, including the NEET controversy.
In a statement, Delhi Police said Wangchuk was moved to the hospital on the advice of medical experts and in compliance with directions issued by the Delhi High Court.
“As per orders of the Hon’ble High Court and on expert medical advice due to the deteriorating health condition of Sh. Sonam Wangchuk, he has been shifted to the hospital for essential medical care,” the police said.
There was no immediate confirmation on whether Wangchuk had ended his hunger strike or agreed to take food after being admitted.
High Court Ordered Medical Intervention
The Delhi High Court had on Thursday directed authorities to conduct daily medical examinations of Wangchuk and provide medical intervention whenever necessary, observing that the life of every citizen was precious.
Following the court’s order, hospitals in the national capital had been placed on alert.
Medical bulletins issued during the protest stated that Wangchuk had lost more than nine kilograms, developed muscle weakness and shown signs of dehydration after surviving only on water and salt throughout the fast.
Despite repeated appeals from doctors, political leaders and supporters, Wangchuk had remained firm on continuing his hunger strike. On Friday, he had expressed his intention to stay alive and participate in the proposed “Chalo Sansad” march to Parliament scheduled for July 20.
His hospitalisation has now cast uncertainty over whether he will be able to join the march. As of Saturday morning, organisers had not announced any change in the programme.
Protest Site Cleared
Following Wangchuk’s transfer to the hospital, Delhi Police deployed heavy security at Jantar Mantar and began clearing the protest site.
Police personnel removed tents and other materials used during the agitation while directing protesters to vacate the area.
The Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), which organised the protest, alleged that police used force against demonstrators during the operation.
CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke claimed he was beaten and detained while opposing the removal of Wangchuk and other protesters. Videos circulating on social media showed police personnel removing protesters amid heated arguments and commotion.
Delhi Police did not immediately issue a detailed response to the allegations of assault and lathi-charge, reiterating only that Wangchuk was shifted for essential medical treatment following expert advice and the High Court’s directions.
Protest Demands
The CJP launched its agitation at Jantar Mantar on June 19, with Wangchuk joining the protest on June 28 before beginning his indefinite hunger strike.
The protesters have demanded accountability for alleged examination leaks and irregularities, reforms in the competitive examination system, and the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.
They have also sought compensation for the families of students who allegedly died by suicide due to examination-related distress.
The movement has attracted support from students and aspirants across the country. However, the Union government had not initiated formal talks with the protesters or deputed a senior political representative to meet Wangchuk before his hospitalisation.
Opposition Voices Support
Several Opposition leaders extended support to Wangchuk during the final days of his fast.
Congress leader Pawan Khera met him on Friday and appealed to him not to endanger his life, stating that the movement required his continued leadership.
Opposition leaders also urged the Centre to engage in dialogue with the protesters.
They recalled a 1984 hunger strike by Wangchuk’s father, Sonam Wangyal, who had demanded Scheduled Tribe status for Ladakhi communities. Then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi had travelled to Leh to meet Wangyal and persuaded him to end his fast after assuring him that his demands would be considered.
An old photograph of that meeting has been widely shared on social media during Wangchuk’s ongoing protest, drawing comparisons with the present situation.
Future of the Protest Uncertain
Although Wangchuk has been hospitalised, the issues that triggered the agitation remain unresolved.
Doctors will now assess the impact of his prolonged fast and determine the course of treatment. It also remains unclear whether he will voluntarily end the hunger strike, continue it under medical supervision or return to the protest after recovery.
