The Delhi High Court on Tuesday permitted climate activist Sonam Wangchuk to be shifted from Delhi’s Safdarjung Hospital to Medanta Hospital in Gurugram, saying the move would help protect his fundamental rights while ensuring continuity of medical treatment. The order came on an appeal filed by Wangchuk’s wife, Gitanjali Angmo, challenging an earlier decision that had denied the transfer.

Court balances healthcare and constitutional rights

A Division Bench comprising Chief Justice D.K. Upadhyaya and Justice Tejas Karia observed that allowing Wangchuk to receive treatment at a hospital of his choice fulfilled the requirement of safeguarding his constitutional rights. The judges directed authorities to immediately transfer him and ensure that all medical records and reports from Safdarjung Hospital were handed over to the private facility for seamless treatment.

Government raises no objection

During the hearing, the Centre informed the court that it had no objection to Wangchuk being shifted to Medanta Hospital. However, the government requested that he should not be discharged against medical advice or return to the protest site until doctors consider it medically safe. The court accepted the arrangement while stressing that his health remained the primary concern.

Hunger strike enters fourth week

Wangchuk has been on a prolonged hunger strike demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over alleged irregularities in medical entrance examinations. He was shifted to Safdarjung Hospital after authorities intervened, citing concerns over his deteriorating health and previous court directions for regular medical monitoring.

Wife welcomes relief from the court

According to the X post by Gitanjali J Angmo, the High Court’s decision was welcomed, saying the family’s concerns over Wangchuk’s treatment at the government hospital had finally been addressed.

“My heartfelt thanks to Delhi High Court,” she writes, adding that she is grateful for this win “against unbelievable odds”.

She had earlier argued that his stay at Safdarjung Hospital felt restrictive and sought permission for treatment at a private hospital where the family had greater confidence in his care.

The High Court’s latest order effectively overturns the earlier refusal to allow the transfer and underscores the judiciary’s effort to balance the state’s responsibility to protect life with an individual’s right to choose medical treatment. The case continues to draw national attention amid Wangchuk’s ongoing protest and concerns over his health.

FAQs

Why did the Delhi High Court allow Sonam Wangchuk’s transfer?

The court said shifting him to a hospital of his choice would protect his fundamental rights while ensuring uninterrupted medical care.

Which hospital has Sonam Wangchuk been shifted to?

He has been directed to be shifted from Safdarjung Hospital to Medanta Hospital in Gurugram.