Activist Sonam Wangchuk remains on an indefinite hunger strike despite being shifted from Jantar Mantar to Safdarjung Hospital after completing 21 days of fasting. Hospital officials have expressed concern over his worsening condition, citing dehydration and metabolic imbalances, and have recommended urgent medical treatment. However, Wangchuk has refused intravenous fluids, oral rehydration solutions, and other medical interventions.
An independent expert from AIIMS has supported the hospital’s assessment, stating that immediate medical care is necessary to prevent serious health complications. Doctors said Wangchuk is conscious, able to communicate clearly, and remains under continuous medical observation while efforts continue to convince him to accept treatment.
Wangchuk’s wife, Gitanjali J. Angmo, has questioned the hospital’s handling of his treatment and demanded greater transparency. She also insisted that no medication or fluids should be administered without the consent of the family and the doctors who have been supervising his health since the beginning of the fast.
Meanwhile, the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) and its founder Abhijeet Dipke, who is also on an indefinite hunger strike, alleged that Delhi Police could take action against protesters during the night or early morning. The party has appealed to supporters to participate in a night vigil and reaffirmed that the proposed ‘Chalo Sansad’ march on July 20 will continue as planned.
At Jantar Mantar, the protest has entered its 28th day, with at least 21 people continuing their indefinite hunger strike alongside Wangchuk. Volunteers are distributing oral rehydration salts and basic medical supplies to demonstrators, while protest tents remain filled with banners, slogans, and personal belongings of the participants.
Addressing supporters, CJP spokesperson Saurav Das said Wangchuk wants to return to Jantar Mantar and continue the movement. According to him, the activist believes he should not be kept in the hospital against his wishes and remains committed to the cause.
Social activist Anna Hazare has urged the Union government to open dialogue with Wangchuk instead of allowing the situation to worsen. In a video message, Hazare said the government should either accept or reject the demands but should at least hold discussions with the activist.
The issue is also expected to feature prominently during the government’s all-party meeting ahead of the Monsoon Session of Parliament. Opposition leaders are likely to raise concerns over Wangchuk’s forcible removal from the protest site and the handling of the ongoing demonstrations.
Security has been significantly tightened across New Delhi ahead of Monday’s planned Parliament march. Police have increased surveillance, intensified vehicle checks, and deployed additional personnel around key locations. Officials stated that no permission has been granted for the march, citing heightened security arrangements during the Parliament session.
Former Chief Justice of India Justice K.G. Balakrishnan also reacted to the developments, expressing hope that Wangchuk’s life would be protected and calling for his well-being amid the ongoing standoff.
