Climate activist and education reformer Sonam Wangchuk is set to be shifted from Safdarjung Hospital to Medanta Hospital after the Delhi High Court permitted his transfer on Tuesday. The development came amid concerns over his health and a legal dispute involving his medical treatment during his ongoing hunger strike.
The Delhi High Court considered a plea filed by Wangchuk’s wife, Gitanjali J Angmo, who had sought his transfer to a private medical facility. The court indicated that Wangchuk could be moved to Medanta Hospital and was expected to pass a formal order regarding his discharge from Safdarjung Hospital. The decision followed concerns raised by Wangchuk’s family over his treatment and the circumstances under which he was admitted to the government hospital. His wife had earlier challenged the court’s direction, arguing that Wangchuk was not under arrest and should have the right to decide where and how he received medical treatment.
Wangchuk has been on a prolonged hunger strike in support of the youth-led Cockroach Janta Party movement, which has been protesting alleged irregularities in competitive examinations and demanding accountability from the government. His health condition has remained a major concern, with doctors monitoring him closely amid the effects of prolonged fasting and dehydration. The activist was earlier taken to Safdarjung Hospital after his health deteriorated during the protest. The move triggered a legal and political controversy, with his supporters and family questioning whether he had been shifted against his wishes. The authorities, however, maintained that medical intervention was necessary to monitor his condition.
The latest Delhi High Court decision now clears the way for Sonam Wangchuk’s transfer to Medanta Hospital, where he is expected to receive further medical care. The development comes as protests linked to the Cockroach Janta Party continue in Delhi following clashes between demonstrators and security personnel during a march towards Parliament.