High Court Intervenes

On July 21, 2026, the Delhi High Court issued a critical directive regarding the medical care of climate activist Sonam Wangchuk. A division bench comprising Chief Justice D.K. Upadhyaya and Justice Tejas Karia ordered his immediate transfer from the government-run Safdarjung Hospital to the private Medanta Hospital in Gurugram. This order came in response to an appeal filed by Wangchuk’s wife, Dr. Gitanjali Angmo, who had challenged a previous administrative refusal to allow his transfer. The court emphasized that Wangchuk has the right to receive medical treatment at a facility of his choice, grounding this decision in the fundamental rights guaranteed under Articles 19 and 21 of the Indian Constitution, which protect personal liberty and the right to life.

Medical Consensus and Government Stance

The court's decision was heavily influenced by a consensus among medical experts. Physicians from AIIMS, Safdarjung Hospital, and Wangchuk's personal medical team agreed that his prolonged hunger strike necessitated continuous, specialized medical monitoring. Representing the central government, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta informed the court that the Centre had 'no objection' to the transfer, provided that Wangchuk remained under strict medical supervision and did not attempt to discharge himself against medical advice. This cooperative stance from the government facilitated a swift resolution to the standoff regarding his location of care.

Implementation of the Order

Following the court's clear instructions, the transfer was executed promptly. The court specifically directed the director of Medanta Hospital to constitute a specialized medical team to provide round-the-clock monitoring according to established medical protocols. Furthermore, it mandated that all medical records and test results from Safdarjung Hospital be transferred immediately to ensure seamless continuity of care. Crucially, the court also ordered that Dr. Gitanjali Angmo be allowed unrestricted visitation rights, addressing concerns about Wangchuk's isolation during his initial hospitalization.

Ongoing Protest and Health Status

Sonam Wangchuk was discharged from Safdarjung Hospital on the evening of July 21 and transported to Medanta Hospital in Gurugram under tight security. He has been on an extended hunger strike demanding Sixth Schedule status and statehood for Ladakh, a protest that has garnered significant national attention. The High Court's intervention ensures that while his protest continues, his health will be monitored in a facility equipped to handle the severe physiological impacts of prolonged starvation. Activists and supporters view this transfer as a necessary step to protect his life while the political stalemate continues.