Delhi High Court allows Sonam Wangchuk's transfer to Medanta Hospital amid health concerns
PTC Web Desk: The Delhi High Court on Tuesday allowed climate activist Sonam Wangchuk to be shifted from Safdarjung Hospital to Medanta Hospital for further treatment after concerns were raised over his health following a 20-day hunger strike at Jantar Mantar.
The decision came after Wangchuk's wife, Gitanjali J Angmo, approached the Delhi High Court seeking his transfer to a private hospital, stating that his condition had worsened after the prolonged fast.
During the hearing, the Delhi High Court directed that Wangchuk be moved to Medanta Hospital, where a panel of doctors will oversee his treatment. The Bench also instructed Safdarjung Hospital to hand over all medical records, reports and treatment details to Medanta to ensure continuity of care. A detailed order from the court is expected later in the day.
The latest direction marks a change from the court's earlier position, when it had supported the Centre's decision to continue Wangchuk's treatment at Safdarjung Hospital.
Appearing for the Centre, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta informed the court that the government had no objection to Wangchuk being shifted to Medanta Hospital.
However, Mehta requested the court to ensure that the activist is not discharged against medical advice. He expressed concern that Wangchuk could return to the protest site before fully recovering, which could put his health at further risk.
He told the court that while Wangchuk has the right to choose his hospital and doctors, he should continue receiving medical supervision until doctors consider it safe for him to leave.
After reviewing Wangchuk's medical reports and interacting with the treating doctors, the High Court observed that there was a broad agreement that he still required medical monitoring.
The Bench noted that while such care could be provided at any suitable hospital, one of the treating doctors had specifically recommended that Wangchuk remain under hospital observation.
Taking this into account, the court decided to allow his transfer to Medanta Hospital, as requested by his family.
Following the court's order, Wangchuk's wife, Gitanjali J. Angmo, thanked the Delhi High Court in a post on X. She also appreciated the legal team representing Wangchuk, calling the decision a significant victory achieved despite difficult circumstances.
The case has drawn widespread attention as concerns over Wangchuk's health continue following his extended hunger strike.
- With inputs from agencies
