NEW DELHI: The Delhi High Court has observed that the government’s decision to shift climate activist Sonam Wangchuk to Safdarjung Hospital was justified in view of concerns over his health following a prolonged hunger strike.
The observations came during the hearing of a petition filed by Wangchuk’s wife, Gitanjali Angmo, seeking his transfer to a private hospital. She submitted that he should be allowed to receive treatment at a medical facility of his choice. The court issued notices to the Centre, Delhi Police and Safdarjung Hospital, directing them to file status reports within three days. The matter is scheduled for further hearing on Thursday. No interim relief was granted.
The bench noted that Wangchuk had been on a hunger strike for around 17 to 18 days and considered medical submissions indicating concerns over his health, including reported low blood sugar and potassium levels. It observed that the decision to move him from the protest site to hospital was based on his medical condition and, at this stage, did not appear to be arbitrary.
The court also observed that Wangchuk was not under detention and remained free, while noting that he had not voluntarily admitted himself to hospital. It further said there was no material before it at this stage to suggest that his bodily autonomy had been violated, noting that medical treatment had been provided with his consent.
Angmo raised concerns over differing medical reports and sought a second medical opinion. The government submitted that authorities had acted cautiously considering Wangchuk’s health condition. The High Court observed that any medical decisions should be taken by the treating doctors in accordance with established medical protocol. The case will be heard again on Thursday.
