GUWAHATI: The Delhi High Court on Thursday, July 16, directed the Centre and the Delhi government to ensure that climate activist Sonam Wangchuk's health is monitored daily and that any medical intervention required to address his deteriorating condition is provided without delay.
A Bench comprising Chief Justice Devendra Kumar Upadhyaya and Justice Tejas Karia reportedly issued the direction while hearing a public interest litigation (PIL) seeking urgent intervention to safeguard Wangchuk's health as he continues his indefinite hunger strike at Jantar Mantar.
Observing that every citizen's life is valuable, the court said, "Whatever medical intervention is needed to save Sonam Wangchuk's life should be done," adding that authorities must make every effort to protect his life.
The PIL, filed on Wednesday, claimed that the 59-year-old activist may not survive the next 48 hours if he does not end his fast. It alleged that the government had shown little concern over his condition and urged authorities to admit him to a government hospital and administer essential nutrients, vitamins and minerals through a liquid diet if necessary.
The petition also argued that while peaceful protest is a fundamental democratic right, Wangchuk's death during the agitation would bring disrepute to the country.
During the hearing, the court questioned the Centre over the arrangements in place to monitor Wangchuk's health. Appearing for the government, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta reportedly informed the court that daily medical check-ups were being conducted, although the attending doctors were not always from government hospitals and sometimes included private practitioners.
Sonam Wangchuk has been on an indefinite hunger strike at Jantar Mantar since June 28, demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over alleged irregularities in the NEET examination. The matter remains under the court's consideration.