Health Crisis of Activist Sonam Wangchuk Sparks Protests in Delhi
Prominent activist Sonam Wangchuk's health has severely declined during a 21-day hunger strike, prompting his hospitalization. Following his transfer to Safdarjung Hospital, protests erupted as supporters vowed to continue their movement. Wangchuk's wife has raised concerns about his treatment, while political leaders criticize the government's handling of the situation. This incident has sparked widespread calls for accountability, with demands for resignations from key officials. The unfolding events highlight the ongoing struggle for student rights and activism in India.
Jul 18, 2026, 11:42 IST
Sonam Wangchuk's Health Deteriorates During Hunger Strike
After being forcibly taken to a hospital by Delhi police, prominent Ladakhi activist Sonam Wangchuk's medical report has been released. The administration of Safdarjung Hospital stated that Wangchuk has become physically weak due to prolonged fasting and dehydration. According to the hospital, "He was admitted for necessary treatment at 7:40 AM. His condition is currently stable, but he requires continuous medical monitoring and treatment to restore vital parameters to normal levels." A specialized team of two doctors and two paramedics has been assigned to oversee his care at Safdarjung Hospital.
During the examination, doctors advised Wangchuk that his deteriorating health necessitated hospitalization. However, he refused to be admitted. Considering his worsening condition and the recommendation from a doctor at RML Hospital, Delhi police transported him via ambulance from the protest site at Jantar Mantar to Safdarjung Hospital.
Meanwhile, Wangchuk's wife, Geetanjali J. Angmo, posted on X, stating, "I am at Safdarjung Hospital in Delhi, where Sonam Wangchuk has been admitted. Without my consent, his family's consent, or that of the doctors who have monitored his health for the past 20 days, nothing should be given to him orally or intravenously."
Key Developments
Following Wangchuk's transfer to Safdarjung Hospital, Abhijit Dipke, founder of the Cockroach People’s Party, remarked, "If they think taking Sonam away will end this movement, they are mistaken. We will remain here and march to Parliament on July 20." He further stated, "Until now, we were demanding the resignation of Dharmendra Pradhan, but after this disgraceful act, we will now demand the resignation of Narendra Modi."
Reactions
Manish Sisodia from AAP responded, saying, "So, this is Modi's solution to the paper leak issue... Anyone who raises their voice against the paper leak should be beaten by goons and silenced. This is not politics; it is cowardice."
Sharad Pawar, president of NCP (SP), criticized the central government's "irresponsible" handling of Wangchuk's activism. He stated that the government preferred to remain spectators rather than addressing the legitimate demands of students. Pawar noted that the government only admitted Wangchuk to the hospital when the situation became "unmanageable," but protests against the activist's treatment would continue despite the government's actions.