The Delhi High Court on Sunday held that the government’s decision to shift climate activist Sonam Wangchuk to Safdarjung Hospital was “not arbitrary” and declined to pass an interim order directing his discharge, Bar & Bench reported.
Justice Mini Pushkarna observed that Wangchuk was under continuous medical supervision and had consented to the administration of electrolytes, adding that there was no violation of his right to bodily autonomy.
According to Bar & Bench, the Court said that since Wangchuk had not voluntarily admitted himself to a hospital despite his deteriorating health, the government was within its rights to intervene. Referring to an earlier order of a Division Bench, the Court observed that “every life is precious.”
The Court also took note of the Centre’s submission that Wangchuk’s family had unrestricted access to him throughout the day and had been provided a separate room at the hospital. It concluded that no interim directions were required at this stage.
However, the Court directed that Wangchuk’s medical reports be shared with his family members, issued notice to all parties and posted the matter for hearing on July 24.
Appearing for Wangchuk’s wife Gitanjali Angmo, Senior Advocate Kapil Sibal argued that Wangchuk should be allowed to move to a hospital of his choice, contending that he was neither under detention nor facing any criminal case. He also alleged that the activist had been denied access to his lawyers and independent doctors after being admitted to Safdarjung Hospital.
Additional Solicitor General Chetan Sharma, appearing for the Centre, said Wangchuk was being treated by a joint team of doctors from AIIMS and Safdarjung Hospital. He submitted that prolonged fasting had led to medical complications and that while Wangchuk had agreed to take sugar-free oral electrolytes, he had declined intravenous fluids and certain medications.
Doctors informed the Court that Wangchuk was dehydrated, had low potassium levels and required further treatment. The Centre also said it was prepared to shift him to AIIMS if necessary, while maintaining that he was receiving appropriate medical care.
Wangchuk has been on an indefinite hunger strike since June 28 in support of students protesting alleged irregularities in competitive examinations, including the NEET (UG). He was shifted to Safdarjung Hospital by Delhi Police on July 18 after his health reportedly deteriorated.
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