The Delhi High Court has directed daily medical monitoring for activist Sonam Wangchuk, who is on an indefinite hunger strike. The court emphasized that the state must protect the lives of citizens, acting on a PIL warning against government passivity.

Key Takeaways

  • The Delhi High Court has ordered daily clinical monitoring of activist Sonam Wangchuk’s health during his indefinite hunger strike.
  • The court emphasized that the life of every citizen is precious and the state must not remain a passive spectator.
  • Wangchuk has been protesting at Jantar Mantar since June 28 over examination irregularities and educational reforms.

The Delhi High Court has directed the Central Government and the Delhi administration to ensure that climate activist and educationist Sonam Wangchuk’s health is monitored "clinically and otherwise" on a daily basis. The court mandated that any medical intervention required to address his deteriorating health must be promptly provided by the authorities, prioritizing the preservation of life above all else.

Judicial Intervention to Save a Life

A Bench comprising Chief Justice Devendra Kumar Upadhyaya and Justice Tejas Karia issued these directions while hearing a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) seeking urgent intervention to safeguard Wangchuk's health. During the proceedings, the court questioned Solicitor General Tushar Mehta regarding the active monitoring mechanisms in place. The Solicitor General assured the court that regular check-ups by government doctors are being conducted and necessary medical aid would be administered dynamically as recommended by medical professionals.

The Legal Argument of 'Abetment of Suicide'

The PIL, filed by advocate and social activist Rakesh Kumar Saini, highlighted that Wangchuk had already lost significant weight, posing a severe threat to his vital organs. Citing reports of his deteriorating condition, the petitioner argued under Section 108 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, asserting that the government's failure to intervene in a life-threatening hunger strike could legally amount to the "abetment of suicide." The plea urged that Wangchuk be shifted to a government hospital and administered essential liquid nutrients if his health crossed critical thresholds.

Context of the Protest

Sonam Wangchuk has been on an indefinite hunger strike at Jantar Mantar since June 28. His protest, organized alongside the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), demands accountability and systemic reforms in India's national examination systems following repeated paper leaks and irregularities. The activist has also demanded the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. By closing the PIL with strict monitoring directives, the High Court has placed the onus of Wangchuk's physical well-being squarely on the state apparatus, raising the stakes of the ongoing protest.