Delhi HC Declines Immediate Shift of Sonam Wangchuk to Private Hospital; Government, Family Present Contrasting Versions

The Delhi High Court on Sunday refused to immediately shift activist Sonam Wangchuk from Safdarjung Hospital to a private medical facility, directing the Centre to submit a fresh medical status report within three days while listing the matter for hearing on July 24. The petition, filed by Wangchuk’s wife Gitanjali J. Angmo, alleged that he was forcibly removed by Delhi Police from the protest site on the 21st day of his indefinite hunger strike and shifted to Safdarjung Hospital without the family’s consent. She told the court that she had lost faith in the government hospital, claiming Wangchuk’s personal doctors and lawyers were not being given adequate access and seeking permission to shift him to a private hospital. The Centre defended its action, stating that Wangchuk’s health had deteriorated after prolonged fasting and that police acted solely on medical advice and in compliance with an earlier High Court direction to monitor his condition. Government doctors informed the court that Wangchuk has accepted oral fluids, ORS and potassium supplements but continues to decline intravenous treatment. Justice Mini Pushkarna observed that Wangchuk is not under detention, his close family members have access to him, and there was no reason at this stage to interfere with the government’s decision to admit him to Safdarjung Hospital. The court clarified that the issue remains under judicial consideration and sought an updated medical report before the next hearing.