New Delhi: Activist and education reformer Sonam Wangchuk walked out of Gurugram’s Medanta Hospital on Monday with a clear message about what comes next. After spending several days under medical care following his 26 day hunger strike, Wangchuk said he would first visit Rajghat to pay tribute to Mahatma Gandhi before returning to his home in Ladakh.
The announcement marks the end of a physically demanding chapter but not, according to Wangchuk, the end of his public engagement. Speaking briefly after his discharge, he said the visit to Rajghat was a symbolic step before heading back to the Himalayas, where he plans to continue his work on environmental conservation and education.
Wangchuk had been admitted to Medanta after the Delhi High Court permitted his transfer from Safdarjung Hospital, where he had been receiving treatment following concerns over his deteriorating health. His family had approached the court, seeking better medical care, and the request was subsequently approved.
The activist ended his 26 day fast last week after discussions with representatives of the Centre and Ladakh. While calling off the protest, he said the decision was taken in the larger interest of dialogue, adding that democratic means remain the best path for pursuing public causes.
His hunger strike had attracted nationwide attention, with supporters from across the country expressing concern over his health. The protest also sparked political debate and legal scrutiny after Wangchuk was shifted from his demonstration site by Delhi Police on medical grounds and admitted to hospital.
The episode drew reactions from civil society groups and members of the medical community, some of whom raised questions over the circumstances surrounding his treatment and transfer. The Delhi High Court’s intervention ultimately paved the way for his move to a private hospital, where doctors monitored his recovery before clearing him for discharge.
Now back on his feet, Wangchuk says his immediate destination is Rajghat, a place he described as an important symbol of peaceful resistance. After paying his respects to Mahatma Gandhi, he plans to return to Ladakh, where he is expected to resume his work on issues ranging from sustainable development to education and environmental protection.
Although his fast has ended, Wangchuk’s latest remarks suggest that his advocacy is set to continue only this time, from the mountains he has long called home.
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