New Delhi: Sonam Wangchuk’s wife, Gitanjali J. Angmo, has approached the Delhi High Court seeking an urgent hearing, alleging that the noted climate activist and education reformer is being kept under “illegal detention” at Safdarjung Hospital after being taken away from his hunger strike at Jantar Mantar by Delhi Police.
In her petition, Angmo has requested that Wangchuk be shifted to a private hospital of the family’s choice, saying they have lost faith in the treatment being provided at Safdarjung Hospital. She has also raised concerns over the lack of transparency regarding his medical condition and treatment, claiming that the family has not been kept adequately informed.
The plea comes a day after Delhi Police shifted Wangchuk to VMMC and Safdarjung Hospital in the early hours of Saturday. Police said the move was made following medical advice, as doctors believed his health had deteriorated after days of fasting. Authorities have maintained that the decision was aimed at protecting his life and was in line with earlier directions of the Delhi High Court, which had asked officials to intervene if his condition became critical.
However, Wangchuk and his supporters have strongly disputed the police’s version. In a message shared from the hospital, Wangchuk described his hospitalisation as an “illegal detention” and urged supporters to continue the planned “Chalo Sansad” march. Calling for “freedom from fear” and “freedom from injustice,” he said the movement should continue peacefully despite his absence.
Supporters have alleged that Wangchuk was taken from the protest site against his wishes. They argue that he had repeatedly refused hospitalisation and wanted to continue his indefinite fast as part of the ongoing agitation.
The hunger strike has drawn widespread public attention, with Opposition leaders criticising the manner in which Wangchuk was removed from Jantar Mantar. Several political leaders have questioned the use of police action against a peaceful protest and expressed support for his demands.
Doctors, meanwhile, have reportedly warned that Wangchuk’s prolonged fast had taken a serious toll on his health, making immediate medical intervention necessary. The Delhi Police has maintained that ensuring his safety remained its primary concern.
The Delhi High Court is expected to take up Angmo’s plea on an urgent basis. The hearing is likely to determine whether Wangchuk can be shifted to a private hospital and could also address the family’s allegation that he is being held without his consent.
The case has added a fresh legal dimension to Wangchuk’s ongoing protest, even as his supporters continue to press ahead with their campaign and await the court’s decision.
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