The Delhi High Court on Thursday, July 16, heard a public interest litigation (PIL) concerning the health of social activist and education reformer Sonam Wangchuk, who has been on a hunger strike at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi for the past 19 days. The court directed the Centre to take immediate necessary steps if doctors determine that he requires any medical assistance.
Wangchuk has been on a hunger strike at Jantar Mantar for the past 19 days. The stated objective of his protest is to raise issues related to alleged paper leaks and demand action in the related cases. Several social activists and organisations have also joined the protest in support of him.
Concerns over his health have increased as the protest has continued, following which the matter reached the Delhi High Court.
During the hearing, the Delhi High Court said that the life of every citizen is extremely valuable and that ensuring its protection is the constitutional responsibility of the government. The court said protecting the life of any citizen should be the highest priority.
The court also said that the government's responsibility is not limited to maintaining law and order but also includes ensuring health protection in such cases. It directed the Centre to continue regular medical examinations of Wangchuk and take necessary steps in accordance with doctors' advice.
The court clarified that if the medical team identifies any risk or emergency, the authorities concerned should immediately take appropriate action.
Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, appearing for the Centre and the Delhi government, told the court that Wangchuk's health is being regularly monitored. He said a team of government doctors remains available every day to examine his health.
If Wangchuk gives permission, doctors conduct his medical check-up and prepare health-related reports.
The government also assured the court that his health condition is being continuously monitored and appropriate medical assistance would be provided if required.
During the hearing, the High Court sought to know whether a systematic process had been established to monitor Wangchuk's health. The government informed the court that arrangements for daily medical examinations were already in place.
The court subsequently directed that the process should continue without interruption and that all necessary steps should be taken in accordance with the professional advice of doctors.
Jantar Mantar in the national capital Delhi has long been a prominent centre for various social and political movements. Wangchuk's hunger strike is continuing at the same location, where his supporters have been protesting. While the stated objective of the movement is to draw the government's attention to the related issues, health concerns have become increasingly serious as the duration of the hunger strike has increased.
