Delhi HC directs GoI to take all steps to save Sonam Wangchuk’s life

New Delhi: The Delhi High Court on Thursday directed the government of India (GoI) to take all necessary steps to protect the life of activist Sonam Wangchuk, who has been on an indefinite hunger strike for 19 days in support of the Cockroach Janta Party’s protest demanding the resignation of Education Minister of India Dharmendra Pradhan.

Hearing a public interest litigation, the court observed that every citizen’s life is valuable and ordered authorities to provide whatever medical intervention is required to save Wangchuk. It also instructed the government to ensure he undergoes regular medical examinations by government doctors and to provide treatment whenever necessary based on their assessment.

The petition, filed on Wednesday, claimed the 59-year-old activist’s condition had become critical after he lost around 8.5 kg during the fast. It sought his immediate transfer to a government hospital and requested that he be provided nutrition through medical intervention if required.

During the hearing, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta informed the court that Wangchuk’s health was being monitored daily, although not all examinations were conducted by government doctors. The court responded by stressing that government medical teams should carry out daily health checks and intervene promptly if his condition deteriorates.

Earlier in the day, Wangchuk reiterated that he would not end his hunger strike without a response from the government, saying doing so would undermine the purpose of the protest. In a video message, he said he was experiencing weakness but maintained that his vital organs were functioning normally.

Instead of urging him to end the fast, Wangchuk appealed to supporters to join the CJP’s proposed “Chalo Sansad” march on July 20, saying the issue should be taken before Members of Parliament.

The CJP is seeking the resignation of Dharmendra Pradhan over alleged irregularities and question paper leaks in national competitive examinations, including NEET-UG.