Delhi High Court Orders Daily Health Monitoring for Activist Sonam Wangchuk Amid Hunger Strike

The Delhi High Court has intervened in the ongoing hunger strike of activist Sonam Wangchuk, instructing both the Central and Delhi governments to conduct daily health assessments of Wangchuk, who has been fasting at Jantar Mantar since June 28. This decision comes in light of concerns regarding the activist’s deteriorating health, as highlighted in a petition that claims he has lost significant weight during his protest.

Wangchuk, a prominent figure advocating for educational reform, is participating in a demonstration organized by the Cockroach Janta Party. Their protest focuses on demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan in response to alleged mismanagement of competitive examinations. The court emphasized the importance of preserving human life, stating that every possible measure should be taken by government authorities to safeguard the well-being of citizens.

During the hearing, the court acknowledged the government’s assertion that medical professionals were already monitoring Wangchuk’s condition. However, the petition, submitted by lawyer and activist Rakesh Kumar Saini, raised alarms about Wangchuk’s rapid health decline, indicating he had lost 8.5 kg since the commencement of his hunger strike. Saini warned that the activist’s life could be at risk within the next two days if the fast continued.

The court’s directive mandates that any necessary medical intervention be administered promptly to ensure Wangchuk’s safety. The legal proceedings not only highlight the gravity of Wangchuk’s situation but also reflect broader societal concerns regarding the treatment of activists and the implications of hunger strikes as a form of protest in India.

The case has sparked discussions on the role of civil society and the responsibilities of the government in safeguarding the welfare of individuals exercising their right to protest. As Wangchuk continues his fast, the eyes of the nation remain on the authorities to ensure his health is prioritized while addressing the underlying issues raised by his demonstration.

Source: scroll.in