19 July,2026 05:41 PM IST | New Delhi | mid-day online correspondent
Sonam Wangchuk`s shift to Safdarjung Hospital justified, says Delhi High Court. File pic
The Delhi High Court on Sunday refused to grant interim relief on a petition filed by the wife of activist Sonam Wangchuk, challenging his continued hospitalisation at Safdarjung Hospital. The court observed that the government's decision to shift him from the Jantar Mantar protest site due to his deteriorating health could not be termed arbitrary and directed the Centre and other respondents to file their replies within three days.
Hearing the matter, Justice Mini Pushkarna issued notice to the Centre, the Delhi Police and other respondents, directing them to submit status reports before the next hearing scheduled for July 24.
The court observed that the decision to shift Wangchuk to a hospital was taken considering his worsening medical condition and, therefore, could not be viewed as an arbitrary action. It also noted that the government was within its rights to ensure necessary medical care when an individual's health was at serious risk.
The High Court recorded that doctors at Safdarjung Hospital were closely monitoring Wangchuk's condition and that he was being administered only oral medication with his consent.
Observing that there was no evidence of force being used, the court said Wangchuk's autonomy was not being violated. It further noted that since he had not voluntarily sought hospital treatment despite his deteriorating health, authorities were justified in shifting him to a medical facility.
During the hearing, Additional Solicitor General Chetan Sharma, appearing for the Centre, submitted that Wangchuk was not under detention and that his family members had unrestricted access to meet him.
Taking note of the submission, the court recorded that Wangchuk's wife, brother and brother-in-law were allowed to meet him at any time and that a separate room had been provided for the family. It also noted the Centre's assurance that Wangchuk's medical reports would be shared with his relatives.
The High Court observed that every life is precious and said all decisions regarding Wangchuk's treatment would be taken solely by the medical team in accordance with established medical protocols. In view of the Centre's assurances and the ongoing medical supervision, the court said no interim directions were necessary at this stage.
The petition was filed by Gitanjali J. Angmo, who sought Wangchuk's immediate discharge from Safdarjung Hospital and his transfer to a hospital chosen by the family. She alleged that he was shifted from the Jantar Mantar protest site without his consent and raised concerns regarding his medical reports and access to legal counsel and doctors of his choice.
Wangchuk has been on an indefinite hunger strike since June 28 in support of students protesting alleged irregularities in the NEET-UG examination. He was admitted to Safdarjung Hospital after his health deteriorated.
(With inputs from IANS)
