The Delhi High Court on Thursday directed the Central and Delhi governments to monitor activist Sonam Wangchuk’s health every day. Wangchuk is on a hunger strike. The court said all medical steps must be taken to protect his life. (Also Read: ‘You are not alone’: Shashi Tharoor writes to protestors at Jantar Mantar, urges Sonam Wangchuk to end hunger strike)
A bench of Chief Justice Devendra Kumar Upadhyaya and Justice Tejas Karia passed the order. This came after the governments told the court that doctors would check Wangchuk daily.
What the court said
Solicitor General Tushar Mehta told the bench that Wangchuk’s health condition would be tracked every day by government doctors. He added that doctors would decide on any medical intervention needed if his health worsens further.
The court noted that every citizen’s life is precious. It said all government authorities must work to protect it. The bench welcomed the Solicitor General’s assurance. It then ordered regular daily monitoring of Wangchuk’s medical condition.
The court also asked if health checkup reports existed. The Solicitor General said a report could be prepared.
The petition behind the order
The order came on a public interest litigation filed by advocate Rakesh Kumar Saini. The petition sought urgent government action to save Wangchuk’s life. It asked the court to direct authorities to take him to a hospital and force feed him.
The petition claimed Wangchuk’s health has dropped fast. It said he has lost 8.5 kg. It warned that his life could be at risk within two days if the strike continues.
The plea argued that the government is treating Wangchuk like a criminal or a threat to the nation. It said the least the government can do is give him proper medical care, even by force if needed. The petitioner also said courts still hold public trust, even as some question the government’s concern for Wangchuk.
Background of the strike
Wangchuk has been on an indefinite hunger strike since June 28. He joined protests at Jantar Mantar in Delhi organised by the Cockroach Janta Party. The group is demanding the resignation of Union education minister Dharmendra Pradhan.
The protest centres on alleged question paper leaks and irregularities in the education system. The Cockroach Janta Party has been protesting since June 20 over the same demand.
Court proceedings
During the hearing, the Solicitor General said Wangchuk’s health checkup happens daily. He noted that Wangchuk has allowed government doctors to examine him at times. He also said a private doctor sometimes visits him.
The court asked for regular checkup reports and stressed that life is precious. It then passed formal directions to ensure ongoing daily monitoring of his health, both clinically and otherwise.
The case remains before the Delhi High Court. Further hearings are expected as the situation develops.