New Delhi, July 18: Climate activist and education reform campaigner Sonam Wangchuk was shifted to Delhi’s Safdarjung Hospital on Saturday after his health deteriorated on the 21st day of his indefinite hunger strike at Jantar Mantar. Delhi Police said the decision was taken on the advice of a team of expert doctors and in compliance with directions issued by the Delhi High Court to ensure timely medical intervention if his condition worsened.
Wangchuk has been on a fast since June 28, demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over alleged irregularities in competitive examinations, including the NEET paper leak controversy. The protest has attracted students, activists and supporters from across the country and was scheduled to culminate in a march to Parliament on July 20.
According to doctors, prolonged fasting and dehydration had significantly weakened Wangchuk, necessitating continuous medical monitoring. Hospital authorities described his condition as stable but said he would remain under observation until his health improves.
The police action triggered protests at Jantar Mantar, with supporters alleging that Wangchuk was taken to the hospital without his consent. Delhi Police, however, maintained that the move was purely based on medical advice and aimed at safeguarding his life. Following his removal, security was tightened around the protest site and several demonstrators were dispersed.
Meanwhile, CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke announced that he would continue the agitation by launching his own indefinite hunger strike, while protest organisers reaffirmed that the planned Parliament march on July 20 would go ahead.
