Sonam Wangchuk was shifted from Delhi’s Jantar Mantar to Safdarjung Hospital after his health condition reportedly deteriorated during his indefinite hunger strike. Reacting to the development, Anish Gawande, National Spokesperson of the Nationalist Congress Party (Sharadchandra Pawar faction), alleged that the move was not driven by concern for Wangchuk’s health but was an attempt to end a democratic protest.
Delhi Police, however, stated that he was taken to the hospital based on medical advice and following directions from the Delhi High Court to ensure necessary medical care. Wangchuk had been on hunger strike since June 28, with supporters continuing their protest and planning a “Sansad Chalo” march on July 20.
Anish Gawande’s Statement
Reacting to Sonam Wangchuk being shifted from Jantar Mantar to a hospital, Anish Gawande, National Spokesperson of the Nationalist Congress Party (Sharadchandra Pawar faction), alleged that the move was not driven by concerns over Wangchuk’s health but was an attempt to end a democratic protest. In a statement, Gawande said, “This is not out of a concern for Sonam Wangchuk’s health. This is to shut down a democratic protest.”
He further criticised the government, alleging that if it truly cared about protesters, it would have engaged in dialogue with those continuing their demonstration at Jantar Mantar. Gawande also urged people to join the planned “Sansad Chalo” march on July 20, calling for public support for the protesters’ demands.
Police Say Action Was Taken On Medical Grounds
Delhi Police said Wangchuk was moved to hospital after doctors monitoring his condition advised medical intervention. In an official statement, the police said, “As per orders of Hon’ble High Court and on expert medical advice due to the deteriorating health condition of Shri Sonam Wangchuk, he has been shifted to the hospital for essential medical care.” The police added that some protesters attempted to obstruct the process, leading to a brief commotion, but claimed that “maximum restraint” was exercised during the operation.
Wangchuk, 59, had been sitting on an indefinite hunger strike at Jantar Mantar for nearly three weeks. Reports stated that his health had declined during the fast, with significant weight loss reported by those monitoring his condition. Medical sources at Safdarjung Hospital said he was conscious and his vital signs were stable after admission.
Protesters Allege Suppression
Following Wangchuk’s removal, protest organisers criticised the police action, alleging that the intervention was aimed at ending a peaceful demonstration rather than addressing the concerns raised by protesters. His supporters said that instead of opening dialogue, authorities were attempting to silence voices demanding accountability.
Wangchuk’s wife, Gitanjali J Angmo, also raised concerns about medical decisions taken after his hospitalisation, saying that no treatment should be administered without consent from his family and the doctors who had been monitoring his health during the hunger strike.
The Citizens for Justice and Peace (CJP) founder Abhijeet Dipke announced an indefinite hunger strike following Wangchuk’s hospitalisation and urged supporters to continue their protest. The group has also called for a “Sansad Chalo” march on July 20.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
The right to peaceful protest is a fundamental part of a democratic society, and the concerns raised by citizens deserve to be heard through dialogue and constructive engagement. At the same time, the health and safety of individuals undertaking prolonged hunger strikes must remain a priority, with medical decisions handled transparently and respectfully.
A democracy is strengthened when institutions respond to public concerns with empathy, accountability and open communication rather than confrontation. Finding common ground between authorities and protesters can help protect both public health and democratic expression. What do you think is the best way for governments and citizens to resolve disagreements while respecting democratic values?
Also Read: ‘Take Consent From Me’: Gitanjali Angmo After Sonam Wangchuk Is Hospitalised Amid Hunger Strike
