The Safdarjung Hospital Doctors Association has called for the protection of climate activist Sonam Wangchuk’s right to seek Leave Against Medical Advice (LAMA) and demanded an independent inquiry into the circumstances surrounding his continued hospitalisation.
The appeal comes after Wangchuk, who was shifted to Safdarjung Hospital by Delhi Police following a prolonged hunger strike at Jantar Mantar, became the centre of a legal and public debate over patient autonomy, informed consent and access to independent medical care. Meanwhile, the Delhi High Court has said its foremost concern is to save Wangchuk’s life and has directed Safdarjung Hospital and AIIMS to place his medical records before the court as it hears petitions related to his treatment.
Doctors Raise Concerns
In its statement, the Safdarjung Hospital Doctors Association said every competent adult patient has the legal and ethical right to opt for Leave Against Medical Advice, urging authorities to ensure that Wangchuk’s rights are respected. The association also sought an independent, impartial inquiry into the events leading to his hospitalisation and the handling of his medical care.
The intervention adds to growing concern from sections of the medical community, including the AIIMS Resident Doctors’ Association, which has also sought an independent probe into the police action at Jantar Mantar and Wangchuk’s continued hospitalisation.
On the other hand, Safdarjung Hospital has maintained that Wangchuk remains stable but requires continuous monitoring due to electrolyte imbalances and the risks associated with his prolonged fast. Medical Superintendent Dr Charu Bamba said he is fully conscious, with normal vital signs, while doctors believe sustained observation remains necessary.
Legal Battle Continues
The controversy began after Wangchuk was removed from his hunger strike site and admitted to Safdarjung Hospital, with police stating the move followed medical advice and directions of the Delhi High Court. His wife, Dr Gitanjali J. Angmo, has challenged his continued stay at the government hospital, alleging a lack of transparency, restricted access to his treating doctors and denial of his request to leave under LAMA.
She has sought permission to shift him to a private hospital of the family’s choice. While an earlier plea for his immediate transfer was declined, the Delhi High Court has now sought detailed medical reports from Safdarjung Hospital, AIIMS and independent laboratories before taking a final view, reiterating that preserving Wangchuk’s life remains its priority.
The letter also referred to publicly available reports and visuals relating to Wangchuk’s hospitalisation, stating that the reported deployment of extensive security personnel, restricted access to parts of the hospital and limitations on routine hospital operations had raised concerns about patient care and the functioning of a public healthcare institution.
The association said that if such reports were accurate, they warranted independent examination to uphold public confidence in constitutional institutions and medical ethics. It further emphasised that every individual admitted to a hospital is entitled to be treated with dignity, compassion and in accordance with established medical ethics and the Constitution of India, adding that any restriction on a patient’s liberty must remain proportionate, transparent and legally justified.
The doctors also expressed concern over reports of the events at Jantar Mantar, where peaceful demonstrators were allegedly subjected to the use of force. According to the letter, such incidents, if established, could undermine trust in public institutions and create an atmosphere of fear among citizens, including members of the medical fraternity. The association urged the President to ensure that constitutional rights, patient autonomy, the independence of public healthcare institutions and the principles of medical ethics are upheld while the matter is examined through an independent inquiry.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
The debate surrounding Sonam Wangchuk’s hospitalisation goes beyond one individual, raising broader questions about patient rights, medical ethics and the balance between protecting life and respecting personal autonomy. Transparent communication, independent oversight and adherence to established legal and ethical standards are essential to maintaining public trust in both healthcare institutions and public authorities.
As the courts continue to examine the matter, ensuring that all stakeholders—including doctors, the patient’s family and the administration—are heard fairly can strengthen confidence in democratic and medical processes. How can India better safeguard both a patient’s right to choose and the duty of doctors to preserve life during situations of public protest?
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Flash : Safdarjung Hospital Doctors Association seek protection of Sonam Wangchuk's right to avail Leave Against Medical Advice (LAMA), calling for an independent inquiry. #SonamWangchuk pic.twitter.com/H1re8ssKAy
— Hemant Rajaura (@hemantrajora_) July 21, 2026
