Activist Sonam Wangchuk Refuses Treatment After Hospitalization

Sonam Wangchuk, the activist known for his hunger strike, has been hospitalized but is refusing treatment. After 20 days without solid food, his health has deteriorated, prompting medical staff to monitor him closely. Despite recommendations for intravenous fluids and medications, Wangchuk remains adamant about not receiving any care. His hunger strike was initiated to demand the resignation of the Education Minister over a NEET paper leak scandal. The situation has drawn attention from the Delhi High Court, which has ordered authorities to ensure his safety. Read on for more details about his condition and the ongoing developments.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 18, 2026, 17:46 IST

Sonam Wangchuk's Health Update

Activist Sonam Wangchuk, who was admitted to Safdarjung Hospital after a 20-day hunger strike, is currently refusing medical treatment. According to a medical bulletin released by the hospital on Saturday afternoon, Wangchuk has declined intravenous fluids and any other medications recommended by doctors. Despite being advised to take IV fluids, he has refused all types of IV fluids, oral rehydration solutions, and any other medications.

The hospital stated that they are closely monitoring his health and are attempting to persuade him to accept treatment. Wangchuk was brought to VMMC and Safdarjung Hospital by Delhi police on July 18, 2026, at 7:40 AM, due to weakness from not consuming solid food for 20 days. At the time of admission, he was conscious, and his pulse, blood pressure, and oxygen saturation were stable, although he exhibited signs of dehydration.

Medical Findings and Ongoing Monitoring

The hospital's blood gas analysis revealed that he was experiencing 'compensated acidosis,' with low serum potassium levels and a blood sugar level of 78 mg/dl. A follow-up test confirmed the same serum potassium levels. Initially, urinary ketones were at 1+, which increased to 3+ by 1:00 PM. Although advised to receive intravenous fluids, Wangchuk has continued to refuse all forms of IV fluids, oral rehydration fluids, and other medications. His health is being closely monitored, and efforts are being made to encourage him to accept treatment for his well-being.

Background of the Hunger Strike

Wangchuk has been on a hunger strike for the past 20 days, demanding the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan in connection with the NEET paper leak case. The police action occurred two days after a directive from the Delhi High Court, which instructed the central and Delhi governments to take "every possible step" to ensure the activist's safety. The court also mandated continuous monitoring of his health. Doctors treating Wangchuk reported on Thursday that he had lost 9 kilograms during the fast, posing a risk to his vital organs. The police stated on Saturday that they acted in accordance with the High Court's orders and medical advice to remove Wangchuk from the protest site.