Delhi HC seeks Centre's response on plea for urgent medical intervention for Sonam Wangchuk

As concerns mount over activist Sonam Wangchuk's deteriorating health, the Delhi High Court has sought responses from the Centre and the Delhi government on a public interest litigation (PIL) seeking urgent medical intervention, including hospitalisation and, if necessary, administration of a liquid diet to preserve his life.

The PIL, filed before the Delhi High Court, claims Wangchuk's condition has worsened after more than two weeks of fasting at Delhi's Jantar Mantar.

The petition alleges that he has lost around 8.5 kg and warns that his life may be at imminent risk if medical intervention is delayed. It seeks directions to shift him to a government hospital and ensure appropriate treatment while balancing his right to protest with the state's obligation to protect life.

A Bench of the Delhi High Court issued notice to both governments and sought their responses, recognising the urgency of the matter. The petition argues that peaceful protest is a constitutional right but contends that authorities also have a responsibility to prevent avoidable loss of life.

The legal proceedings come as Wangchuk's indefinite hunger strike has drawn increasing public attention. According to reports, he has been fasting at Jantar Mantar since June 28 in support of demands linked to education reforms and broader concerns regarding Ladakh.

The activist's health has also prompted appeals from prominent public figures. Actor Soni Razdan, veteran actor Shabana Azmi and actor Swara Bhasker have publicly urged Wangchuk to end his fast, expressing concern that the movement needs his continued leadership more than his physical sacrifice.

Several writers, activists and members of civil society have similarly voiced support while appealing to him to prioritise his health.

The developments have reignited national attention on Wangchuk, the engineer, education reformer and Ramon Magsaysay Award recipient whose work in sustainable development and education inspired the character of Phunsukh Wangdu in the film 3 Idiots.

Over the past several years, he has emerged as one of the most prominent voices advocating constitutional safeguards, environmental protection and sustainable development for Ladakh.

The Delhi High Court is expected to hear the matter further after receiving responses from the Centre and the Delhi government. Meanwhile, the focus remains on whether authorities intervene medically, how the court balances the right to protest with the right to life, and whether Wangchuk's supporters can persuade him to end his fast voluntarily.