Delhi Police Move Sonam Wangchuk to Hospital on HC Direction; CJP Supporters Allege Force Was Used

Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk was shifted to a hospital on Saturday after completing 20 days of his indefinite hunger strike at Delhi's Jantar Mantar.

Delhi Police said the move was carried out on the directions of the Delhi High Court and based on expert medical advice after Wangchuk's health deteriorated.

CJP Alleges Forced Removal

Supporters of the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), which is leading the protest, alleged that Wangchuk was taken to the hospital against his wishes.

Videos shared on social media showed protesters raising slogans as police personnel shifted the activist from the protest site.

Police Cite High Court Order

In a post on X, the Deputy Commissioner of Police (New Delhi) said Wangchuk was hospitalised because of his deteriorating health and on the advice of medical experts.

The police said the transfer was carried out in compliance with the Delhi High Court's directions. Officials also claimed that some protesters tried to obstruct the exercise, causing a brief commotion, but said the operation was completed safely with "maximum restraint".

Health Had Worsened

The police action came ahead of a scheduled hearing in the Delhi High Court.

Earlier this week, the High Court directed authorities to conduct daily medical examinations of Wangchuk, observing that "the life of any citizen is precious" and asking the Centre to ensure all necessary medical intervention.

Doctors monitoring Wangchuk on Friday described his condition as an emergency and warned of possible organ failure.

Medical bulletins said the 59-year-old activist had lost more than eight kilograms since beginning his indefinite fast.

Why Is Wangchuk Protesting?

Wangchuk launched the hunger strike demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over the alleged irregularities in the NEET examination.

The protest, organised by the CJP, is also seeking wider reforms in the country's education system.

Opposition Leaders Visited

Several Opposition leaders, including Congress leader Pawan Khera, Samajwadi Party MP Dimple Yadav and Aam Aadmi Party national convener Arvind Kejriwal, visited Wangchuk in recent days and appealed to him to end his fast due to his deteriorating health.

The protesters have also announced a march to Parliament on the opening day of the Monsoon Session on July 20 and appealed to political parties to join the demonstration.

Delhi Police maintain the hospitalisation was carried out under the High Court's directions and medical advice, while CJP supporters allege Wangchuk was shifted forcefully.