Sonam Wangchuk's health deteriorates on Day 20 of hunger strike; doctors warn of dehydration

Sonam Wangchuk was taken to hospital by the Delhi Police on Saturday (File pic)

A day after Sonam Wangchuk was taken to the hospital amid the hunger strike, the doctors have found that the activist, who is currently at Safdarjung Hospital in Delhi, is facing dehydration, low potassium, and rising ketone levels, which may pose a risk to kidney function and other metabolic complications.

As per ANI sources, Wangchuk is under close medical observation, and the hospital authorities are continuously counseling the family to allow treatment to begin without further delay, sources said.

According to the Health Bulletin released by Safdarjung Hospital, Wangchuk (59) was admitted to Safdarjung Hospital at 7:40 am on Saturday after being brought by Delhi Police. He was admitted with a history of fasting for 20 days from solid food and generalised weakness. There is no history of fainting attacks.

The health bulletin noted, "At the time of admission, he was conscious with a stable pulse, blood pressure, and oxygen saturation. Signs of dehydration were seen. Blood gas analysis revealed compensated acidosis with decreased serum potassium and blood sugar of 78 mg/dl. Repeat serum potassium was similar. Urinary ketones were 1+ at the time of admission, which increased to 3+ by 1:00 pm," as cited by ANI.

It also added, "Although intravenous fluids were advised, the patient has refused all intravenous fluids, oral rehydration fluid, or any other medication. He is being continuously monitored and counselled for treatment in the best interest of his health, as per ANI.

Sonam Wangchuk was on a hunger strike for the 20days

Before being taken to the hospital, Wangchuk was on indefinite hunger strike for 20 consecutive days, demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over alleged nationwide examination irregularities, including the NEET paper leak controversy.

Earlier on Saturday, Delhi Police said Wangchuk was shifted to the Safdarjung Hospital from the Jantar Mantar protest site in compliance with the Delhi High Court's directions and on medical advice due to his deteriorating health. Police officials said maximum restraint was exercised during the operation.

The police action has drawn criticism from several opposition leaders, including those from the Aam Aadmi Party, Samajwadi Party, Congress and Trinamool Congress. Left student organisations also joined the protest organised by the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) at Jantar Mantar.

CJP continues to protest

The Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) continued to stage its protest at Jantar Mantar in Delhi and has given a call for a march to Parliament on the first day of the Monsoon Session on Monday. However, sources have said that the organisation is yet to approach the Delhi Police to seek official clearance for this march, as per ANI.

Moreover, even if the political outfit applies for permission now, it is highly unlikely to be granted, given the stringent security protocols in place for the upcoming Monsoon Session of Parliament.

(With inputs from ANI)