Activist Continues Fast in Hospital as Doctors Urge Immediate Medical Intervention
Climate activist and education reform advocate Sonam Wangchuk continues his indefinite hunger strike from his hospital bed at Delhi’s Safdarjung Hospital, despite repeated appeals from doctors recommending urgent medical treatment.
Wangchuk was shifted to the hospital on July 18 after his health deteriorated during his prolonged fast at Jantar Mantar. The move followed medical advice and judicial directions for continuous monitoring of his condition. Since then, he has reportedly declined medical interventions, including intravenous fluids, oral rehydration solutions, and medications.
According to the latest medical bulletin issued by Vardhman Mahavir Medical College (VMMC) and Safdarjung Hospital, an independent medical expert from AIIMS has reviewed Wangchuk’s condition and concurred with the treating team that he requires immediate medical intervention. Doctors have emphasized that prolonged fasting has resulted in dehydration and poses significant health risks if left untreated.
Hospital authorities have stated that Wangchuk remains conscious and haemodynamically stable at present. However, they have cautioned that stability should not be interpreted as an absence of danger. Continuous monitoring remains essential, and timely treatment has been strongly recommended to prevent further deterioration of his health.
The hunger strike, which began on June 28, has drawn national attention. Wangchuk has been fasting in solidarity with the youth-led protest movement demanding accountability over examination-related controversies and broader education reforms. His deteriorating health has prompted interventions from the judiciary, medical professionals, political leaders, and civil society groups.
The Delhi High Court had earlier directed that Wangchuk’s health be monitored daily by government doctors and observed that every citizen’s life is precious. The Centre informed the court that any necessary medical intervention would be undertaken based on doctors’ advice if his condition worsened.
Meanwhile, legal proceedings surrounding his hospitalization continue. A plea seeking his transfer from Safdarjung Hospital to a private medical facility was recently declined by the Delhi High Court, which ordered that he remain under medical supervision at the government hospital for the time being.
Supporters of Wangchuk have alleged that he is continuing his protest peacefully while exercising his autonomy regarding medical treatment. Doctors, on the other hand, maintain that immediate fluid and electrolyte therapy is medically necessary given the duration of the fast and emerging signs of dehydration.
As the hunger strike continues, the situation remains a delicate balance between respecting an individual’s right to protest and safeguarding life through timely medical care. Medical teams at Safdarjung Hospital continue to closely monitor Wangchuk’s condition while urging him to accept the recommended treatment.