Delhi High Court says Sonam Wangchuk’s transfer to Safdarjung Hospital was driven by his deteriorating health

On Monday the Delhi High Court heard a petition filed by Dr. Gitanjali Angmo, the wife of activist Sonam Wangchuk, who has been on an indefinite hunger strike for more than three weeks. The core of the plea was simple – she wanted her husband moved to a private hospital of his choice.

The bench, however, was quick to point out that the earlier decision to shift Wangchuk from the makeshift camp at Jantar Mantar to Safdarjung Hospital was “not an arbitrary action.” According to the court, his health had started slipping – low potassium, borderline sugar levels and a steady loss of weight – and the government‑run facility was the nearest place that could monitor him round‑the‑clock.

One of the doctors from the hospital’s medical team told the judges that Wangchuk had begun taking oral fluids, potassium chloride tablets and a sugar‑free oral rehydration solution. Yet, despite repeated pleas, he kept refusing intravenous (IV) fluids. “He needs vitamins, his parameters are on the lower side, especially potassium and sugar,” the doctor said, sounding a mix of concern and frustration.

Judge Pushkarna, after listening, asked Wangchuk to cooperate with the doctors. “We have to see the larger picture,” the judge remarked, acknowledging that while Wangchuk is not in detention, his family members have been allowed limited access to see him.

Senior advocate Kapil Sibal, representing the couple, argued that a citizen should have the freedom to choose where he receives medical care, especially when no criminal case hangs over his head. He also flagged that an earlier order for hospitalization had been passed ex parte – essentially without hearing the family.

The court, however, balanced those rights against the pressing medical facts. It reminded everyone that a hunger strike, especially one lasting over twenty‑one days, can turn deadly fast. The judges directed daily clinical monitoring of Wangchuk’s vitals and insisted that the medical team keep him under close watch.

Wangchuk’s protest began on June 28, sparked by alleged irregularities in the NEET examination, including a rumored paper leak. Backed by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), his fast has now entered the third week. Reports say he has shed more than eight kilograms and his blood sugar has dipped, making the situation quite precarious.

For now, the court’s order stands – Wangchuk remains at Safdarjung Hospital, under observation, and is urged to take the treatment offered. Whether he’ll eventually be shifted to a private facility remains to be seen, but the judges have made it clear that any such move must be based on medical necessity, not mere preference.