Delhi High Court declines plea to shift Sonam Wangchuk.

Activist to remain at Safdarjung hospital amid health concerns.

New Delhi, July 19: The Delhi High Court has refused to grant interim relief to activist Sonam Wangchuk’s wife, who sought permission to move him from Safdarjung Hospital to a private facility. The court’s decision came during a special hearing convened after authorities admitted Wangchuk following a prolonged hunger strike.

Justice Mini Pushkarna, presiding over the matter, observed that the government acted within its rights in directing Wangchuk’s hospitalization, given his deteriorating condition after nearly three weeks of fasting in Delhi’s sweltering heat. “No interim orders are required to be passed at this stage,” the judge stated, emphasizing that medical professionals at Safdarjung were closely monitoring his health.

The court noted that Wangchuk had been administered oral medication without sugar, and this was done with his consent. Justice Pushkarna clarified that there was no violation of his autonomy, nor was force being applied. She further highlighted that his wife, Gitanjali Angmo, and other family members had been granted unrestricted access to him during his stay.

Despite these assurances, Angmo expressed distrust in the hospital, citing a lack of transparency. Represented by senior advocate Kapil Sibal, she argued that her husband should be shifted to Medanta Hospital, insisting that “it is my body, and I decide where I go.” The plea, however, was countered by Additional Solicitor General Chetan Sharma, who stressed that even the President of India receives treatment at government hospitals, underscoring their credibility.

Government sources had earlier warned that moving Wangchuk could pose serious risks to his health. The Centre also urged the court to allow doctors the freedom to take necessary steps to safeguard his life. The bench agreed, directing the medical team to make the final decisions regarding his treatment.

The court has ordered a status report within three days, with the next hearing scheduled for July 24. Meanwhile, Angmo plans to lead a march to Parliament tomorrow to press for reforms in the education system and accountability over the alleged NEET paper leakissues that prompted Wangchuk’s hunger strike beginning June 28 under the banner of the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP).

As the legal battle continues, Wangchuk remains under close observation at Safdarjung Hospital, with his supporters rallying behind demands for transparency and systemic change.