Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk was shifted to a hospital by Delhi Police on Saturday after spending 20 days on a hunger strike at Jantar Mantar. The move came amid concerns over his deteriorating health and ahead of a hearing in the Delhi High Court.

Police personnel reached the protest site early in the morning and took Wangchuk to the hospital, triggering protests and sloganeering by activists of the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), which has been leading the agitation seeking the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over the alleged NEET paper leak.

Police cite High Court order

In a statement, Delhi Police said the decision was taken in line with the High Court’s directions and on the advice of medical experts.

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“Sonam Wangchuk has been shifted to the hospital for essential medical care,” the statement said.

The police also appealed to those gathered at Jantar Mantar to leave the protest site peacefully.

“While complying with the orders of Hon’ble High Court the protesters tried to create obstruction, in which slight commotion ensued. Police, however, exercised maximum restrain and undertook the exercise safely. We request the protesters at Jantar Mantar to peacefully vacate the place at the earliest.”

Health concerns intensified

The police action followed growing concern over Wangchuk’s health. Two days ago, the Delhi High Court had directed authorities to conduct daily medical examinations, observing that “life of any citizen is precious”. The court also told the Centre that “anything and everything should be done to protect Wangchuk’s life”.

Doctors who examined the activist on Friday reportedly described his condition as an emergency, warning of possible organ failure. Earlier medical bulletins had also stated that the 59-year-old had lost more than eight kilograms since beginning his fast.

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Environmentalist Sonam Wangchuk being attended by medical professionals on the 18th day of his indefinite hunger strike | File image/ANI

Protest over NEET paper leak

Wangchuk has been fasting to demand the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, holding him morally responsible for the alleged NEET paper leak.

The protest, organised by the online satirical movement Cockroach Janta Party and led by founder Abhijeet Dipke, has drawn support from several Opposition leaders. Over the past two days, Congress leader Pawan Khera, Samajwadi Party MP Dimple Yadav and Aam Aadmi Party chief Arvind Kejriwal visited Wangchuk and appealed to him to end his fast.

Also Read | ‘Would be a matter of great shame’: Plea as Delhi HC directs Centre to monitor Sonam Wangchuk’s health

The protesters have also called for a march to Parliament on July 20, the opening day of the Monsoon Session, and urged political parties to join the demonstration. Meanwhile, Pradhan has rejected the demand for his resignation, describing the CJP and its supporters as “the B-team of disruptive elements” who “do not have faith in the country’s progress”.

FAQs:

Why was Sonam Wangchuk taken to the hospital?

Delhi Police said he was shifted on medical advice and in compliance with the Delhi High Court’s directions.

Why is Sonam Wangchuk on a hunger strike?

He is demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over the alleged NEET paper leak.