Delhi High Court asks government doctors to monitor Sonam Wangchuk daily

New Delhi: The Delhi High Court on Thursday directed authorities to monitor Sonam Wangchuk’s health daily and provide medical aid as needed while he continues an indefinite fast at Jantar Mantar.

A bench of Chief Justice D.K. Upadhyaya and Justice Tejas Karia said “life is precious” and ordered government doctors to conduct regular examinations and intervene if required. Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, appearing for the Centre and the Delhi government, told the court that daily health checks had been carried out and that officials had no objection to continued monitoring by government medical teams.

The court issued the directive on a public interest litigation that raised concerns about Wangchuk’s deteriorating condition. Petitioner Rakesh Kumar Saini had sought directions for authorities to assist Wangchuk, including medical intervention and discussion of his demands; the plea warned that inaction could amount to abetment if the activist’s health collapsed.

Wangchuk, who joined the Cockroach Janta Party protest on June 28, has been fasting to press issues related to alleged irregularities in the NEET examination. Organisers and supporters say he has lost more than 9 kg by the 19th day of the fast, and doctors warned he has entered a critical stage that could affect organs.

In a video message released on Wednesday, Wangchuk rejected calls to end his fast without government response and urged supporters to back a proposed Parliament march on July 20. Support continued to pour in from public figures and activists; farmer leader Rakesh Tikait said he would visit Wangchuk on Thursday evening.

The court asked officials to ensure government medical reports are maintained and to act promptly should Wangchuk’s condition require intervention.