NEW DELHI: Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk was shifted from the protest site at Jantar Mantar to Safdarjung Hospital early on Saturday after completing 21 days of an indefinite hunger strike, with authorities citing concerns over his deteriorating health.
Wangchuk had been protesting against Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, demanding his resignation over the alleged NEET paper leak. Police said the decision to move the activist was taken in compliance with directions issued by the Delhi High Court and on the advice of medical experts.
According to Delhi Police, Wangchuk’s condition had worsened, making immediate medical care necessary. Officials said he was conscious and his vital signs were stable after being admitted to the hospital. Police also appealed to other protesters at Jantar Mantar to vacate the site peacefully.
The action came ahead of a scheduled hearing in the Delhi High Court, which had earlier directed authorities to conduct daily medical examinations of Wangchuk. The court had observed that every citizen’s life is precious and instructed authorities to take all necessary steps to safeguard his health.
Medical teams monitoring Wangchuk had warned that his condition had become critical, with reports indicating he had lost more than eight kilograms during the fast. Doctors had also expressed concerns about the possibility of organ failure if the hunger strike continued.
The protest has drawn support from several Opposition leaders in recent days. Congress leader Pawan Khera, Samajwadi Party MP Dimple Yadav and Aam Aadmi Party chief Arvind Kejriwal visited Wangchuk and appealed to him to end his fast in view of his declining health.
The demonstration at Jantar Mantar was organised by the Cockroach Janta Party, which has been demanding educational reforms and holding the Education Minister morally responsible for the alleged NEET paper leak. Protesters have also announced a march to Parliament on July 20, the opening day of the Monsoon Session, and have urged political parties to join the demonstration.
