Sonam Wangchuk Health Update: Activist Stable but Needs Close Monitoring, Says Delhi’s Safdarjung Hospital
Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk remains in stable condition but requires continuous medical observation following a prolonged hunger strike, Vardhman Mahavir Medical College (VMMC) and Safdarjung Hospital announced in a health bulletin on Sunday. Wangchuk was transferred to the hospital on Saturday after Delhi Police removed him from his protest site at Jantar Mantar.
Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk is in a stable condition but requires continuous medical supervision following his prolonged hunger strike, Vardhman Mahavir Medical College (VMMC) and Safdarjung Hospital said on Saturday. The hospital's update came after Wangchuk was shifted from Delhi's Jantar Mantar to the government-run medical facility amid growing concerns over his health after more than 20 days of fasting.
Hospital Says Continuous Treatment Is Necessary
In an official medical bulletin, Safdarjung Hospital said Wangchuk is weak due to prolonged fasting and dehydration but remains clinically stable. Doctors said he has been admitted under the Department of Medicine and requires sustained medical intervention, continuous monitoring and treatment to restore his body's vital parameters. Hospital authorities stressed that although his condition is stable, close observation remains essential during his recovery. Sonam Wangchuk Health Update: Climate Activist Stable but Weak, Requires Continuous Monitoring, Say Delhi Hospital.
Shifted From Protest Site After 20-Day Fast
Wangchuk was shifted to VMMC and Safdarjung Hospital early on Saturday after completing 20 days of his indefinite hunger strike at Jantar Mantar. According to Delhi Police, the decision was taken following medical advice and in compliance with directions issued by the Delhi High Court to ensure that his health did not deteriorate further. Medical teams had been conducting regular health assessments at the protest site before he was moved to the hospital.
Family Raises Concerns Over Treatment
The activist's wife, Gitanjali J. Angmo, questioned the decision to hospitalise him, saying he had been stable before being moved. She also said no medical treatment should be administered without her consent and expressed concerns over the manner in which he was shifted from the protest venue. Abhijeet Dipke Announces Indefinite Hunger Strike After Sonam Wangchuk Shifted to Hospital (Videos).
Separately, Wangchuk's personal doctor disputed the hospital's assessment regarding potassium deficiency, calling the findings "suspicious." Hospital authorities, however, have maintained that continuous medical care is necessary given the effects of prolonged fasting.
Protest Continues Despite Hospitalisation
Wangchuk's supporters have said the protest will continue despite his hospitalisation. Members of his team have maintained that the activist intends to resume his agitation once medically fit and have announced plans to press ahead with demonstrations, including a proposed march to Parliament.
Background
Wangchuk began his indefinite hunger strike on June 28 in support of a youth-led campaign demanding accountability over alleged irregularities in competitive examinations, including NEET. His fast drew nationwide attention, prompting regular medical evaluations as his health declined.
Authorities intervened after doctors warned that prolonged fasting could lead to serious complications, while the Delhi High Court directed that appropriate medical care be ensured to protect his health.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jul 19, 2026 09:35 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).
