New Delhi: The Delhi High Court on Thursday directed the Centre and the Delhi government to ensure the safety and proper medical care of climate activist Sonam Wangchuk. The activist has entered the 19th day of his indefinite hunger strike at Delhi’s Jantar Mantar.
The court ordered daily health monitoring by government doctors. It also said authorities must provide immediate medical treatment if Wangchuk’s condition worsens.
A bench headed by Chief Justice D.K. Upadhyaya observed that “life is precious.” The court instructed authorities to take all necessary steps to safeguard Wangchuk’s health.
The directions came while hearing a Public Interest Litigation (PIL). The petition raised serious concerns over Wangchuk’s deteriorating health and warned that he may not survive if the fast continues without medical intervention.
Sonam Wangchuk loses over 9 kg during hunger strike
According to Wangchuk’s medical team, the 59-year-old activist has lost more than 9 kg since beginning his hunger strike.
His attending physician, Dr. Satish Lamba, said the prolonged fast has entered a dangerous stage. He warned that it could lead to severe metabolic imbalance, muscle loss and multiple-organ complications if it continues.
Centre assures court of regular medical supervision
Appearing for the Centre, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta informed the court that government doctors are already monitoring Wangchuk’s health.
He assured the bench that medical experts would continue regular examinations. He added that appropriate treatment would be provided whenever required, based on medical advice.
Public support grows as protest continues
Despite growing concerns over his health, Wangchuk has refused to end the fast. He has maintained that he will continue the protest until his demands are addressed.
The hunger strike has drawn widespread attention across the country. Several political leaders, actors, social activists and public figures have expressed solidarity. Those supporting Wangchuk include Shashi Tharoor, Arvind Kejriwal, Mahua Moitra, Uddhav Thackeray, Aaditya Thackeray, Vishal Dadlani, Shabana Azmi, Naseeruddin Shah, Zeenat Aman, Bhuvan Bam and Ashish Chanchlani.
Actor Atul Kulkarni also announced a one-day fast in support of Wangchuk. He appealed to the government to initiate dialogue with the activist.
Delhi High Court prioritises Wangchuk’s health
The case has intensified public attention on Wangchuk’s deteriorating health. The Delhi High Court has made it clear that protecting his life remains the immediate priority while his protest continues.
Prateeksha Kumari is a journalist and strategic communications professional specialising in digital journalism, political reporting, and public affairs. Her work focuses on grassroots issues, governance, and civic developments, with an emphasis on clarity, accuracy, and narrative-driven reporting.
She holds a Master’s degree in Journalism and Mass Communication from Himachal Pradesh University, Shimla and has qualified the UGC-NET examination, reflecting her academic grounding in media studies and communication research. Her reporting spans politics, public policy, health, education, and socio-economic issues, and she is experienced in bilingual (Hindi and English) content creation tailored to diverse audiences.
Alongside her journalistic work, she brings experience in political communication and public relations, where she has contributed to campaign messaging, media outreach, and narrative building. She has worked on integrated communication strategies across print and digital platforms, combining editorial judgment with audience insight and data-led content approaches.
