The Centre has been directed to ensure immediate medical intervention after the Delhi High Court was informed that activist Sonam Wangchuk’s prolonged hunger strike had placed his life at serious risk
The Delhi High Court has directed the Centre to take all necessary steps to safeguard the life of activist Sonam Wangchuk, who has been on an indefinite hunger strike for 19 days in support of protests against the Union Education Minister.
Hearing an urgent petition, the Court observed that the life of every citizen is invaluable and ordered that “whatever medical intervention is needed” be undertaken to save Wangchuk’s life.
The petition, filed a day earlier, warned that the 59-year-old activist’s health had deteriorated significantly and claimed that he might not survive the next 48 hours if the fast continued. It alleged that Wangchuk had already lost around 8.5 kilograms during the protest and accused the authorities of failing to respond adequately to the medical emergency.
The plea urged the Court to direct the government to shift Wangchuk to a government hospital and administer essential nutrients, vitamins and minerals through a liquid diet if required to preserve his life.
Taking note of the submissions, the High Court emphasised that the State has a duty to protect the life of every citizen and directed the authorities to ensure that all appropriate medical assistance is provided without delay.
The matter is expected to remain under judicial scrutiny as the Court monitors compliance with its directions and Wangchuk’s health condition.
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