Sonam Wangchuk’s Protest Takes Dramatic Turn
News Desk
New Delhi: A 21-day hunger strike by Indian educationist and climate activist Sonam Wangchuk took a dramatic turn on Saturday after he was moved from his protest site at New Delhi’s Jantar Mantar to a government hospital amid concerns over his declining health.
The 59-year-old activist had been on a salt-and-water-only fast since June 28, supporting the “Cockroach Janata Party” (CJP) online protest movement that has raised concerns over education reforms, examination irregularities and alleged paper leaks in national-level tests.
Indian media reports said Wangchuk had lost more than 9 kilograms during the fast and was experiencing severe physical discomfort. His supporters had planned a peaceful march towards the Indian Parliament, with Wangchuk expressing his intention to join despite his weakened condition.
The transfer was carried out early Saturday morning when police and paramilitary personnel arrived at the protest venue. Videos from the scene showed officials moving Wangchuk from the stage and taking him to Safdarjung Hospital by ambulance, while some protesters attempted to resist the action.
Delhi Police defended the move, saying the decision was taken based on medical advice and directions from the Delhi High Court. Deputy Commissioner of Police Sachin Sharma said Wangchuk was shifted to the government facility for necessary treatment and remains under medical supervision.
The Delhi High Court had earlier directed authorities to monitor Wangchuk’s health and ensure immediate medical assistance if required.
However, the hospital transfer has triggered further controversy, with Wangchuk’s wife, Gitanjali Jay Angmo, objecting to any medical intervention without her approval. In a statement, she urged hospital authorities not to administer any medicine, food or treatment without consultation with the family and doctors who had been monitoring his condition during the hunger strike.
She questioned the need for hospitalization, saying Wangchuk’s condition had been stable a day earlier and that his rights and consent should be respected.
The development has raised uncertainty over the planned Parliament march, with Wangchuk’s participation now unlikely due to his current health condition.
