Education reformer and climate activist Sonam Wangchuk was shifted to Delhi’s Safdarjung Hospital on Saturday after his health deteriorated on the 21st day of his indefinite hunger strike at Jantar Mantar. Delhi Police said the decision was taken following medical advice and in compliance with directions to ensure his well-being, even as the move triggered protests from supporters and criticism from opposition leaders.
Wangchuk, 59, began his fast on June 28 in support of students protesting alleged irregularities in competitive examinations, including the NEET paper leak controversy. Through his protest, he has demanded greater accountability in the examination system, institutional reforms and the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. Over the past three weeks, the movement has drawn nationwide attention and support from students, activists and several public figures.
According to Delhi Police, Wangchuk was taken to the government-run Safdarjung Hospital after doctors monitoring his condition advised immediate medical intervention. Officials maintained that the decision was made solely on health grounds, citing concerns over the prolonged fast and his weakening physical condition. The operation was carried out early on Saturday under tight security at Jantar Mantar.
The hospital later said Wangchuk was stable but remained weak because of prolonged fasting and dehydration. Doctors added that he requires continuous monitoring and medical treatment to stabilise his condition.
The development comes days after the Delhi High Court directed authorities to closely monitor Wangchuk’s health and take appropriate steps if his condition worsened. Observing that “life is precious”, the court had asked officials to ensure he received timely medical care while balancing his right to protest.
Supporters at the protest site objected to the police action, with several alleging that Wangchuk was removed against his wishes. Some protesters were also escorted away from the venue as police cleared parts of the demonstration site. Abhijeet Dipke, founder of the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), criticised the operation and announced that he would continue the hunger strike in Wangchuk’s place. The organisation has also called for a protest march to Parliament on July 20.
Wangchuk’s wife also questioned the decision to hospitalise him, saying there was no immediate need for the transfer and insisting that no treatment should be administered without his consent. Her remarks added another layer of controversy to the incident as debate continued over the balance between protecting a protester’s health and respecting personal autonomy.
The police action drew political reactions as well, with several opposition leaders criticising the Centre and accusing authorities of suppressing a peaceful democratic protest. Student groups and activists also expressed concern over the manner in which Wangchuk was removed from the protest site, while supporters gathered outside the hospital seeking updates on his condition.
In recent days, Wangchuk’s campaign has received support from several personalities across the entertainment industry, including Aamir Khan, Imran Khan, Atul Kulkarni, Omi Vaidya, Hrithik Roshan and Shekhar Suman, who have voiced concern over his health while backing his call for education reforms.
As Wangchuk remains under medical supervision, his protest continues to fuel a nationwide debate on examination reforms, transparency and accountability. While authorities insist the hospitalisation was necessary to safeguard his health, supporters maintain that the issues raised through his fast remain unresolved, with demonstrations expected to continue in the coming days.
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