New Delhi, July 16, 2026

The Delhi High Court has underscored the importance of safeguarding the life and health of activist Sonam Wangchuk as his indefinite hunger strike entered its 19th day. Hearing an urgent plea over his deteriorating condition, the court stressed that authorities must take all necessary steps to protect his well-being while balancing his right to peaceful protest with the state's responsibility to preserve life.

Directing the government to act promptly, the court said, "Whatever medical intervention is needed to save Sonam Wangchuk's life should be done." It further observed, "We note that the life of any citizen is precious… and all efforts ought to be made by authorities to save the same."** The petition, filed a day earlier, claimed the 59-year-old activist had lost 8.5 kg and warned that he might not survive the next 48 hours without ending his fast. It urged authorities to admit him to a government hospital and provide essential nutrients, vitamins and minerals through a liquid diet. The plea also stated that while "holding a peaceful protest at a public place is a fundamental, democratic right of the citizens", Wangchuk's death "would be a matter of great shame for the country and the world".

During the hearing, the court questioned the government over the medical supervision being provided to Wangchuk. Solicitor General Tushar Mehta informed the bench that daily health check-ups were being conducted, although not always by government doctors, saying, "… sometimes it is private doctors." In response, the court directed that Wangchuk should receive regular medical examinations by government doctors and that authorities must intervene with treatment whenever required. The bench added, "We would like this person to receive regular and daily medical checks from government doctors… and intervention depending on those reports. And if any medication is required, please intervene. Every life is precious!"

Wangchuk, meanwhile, maintained that his health remains normal for someone observing a prolonged hunger strike. He also said he would not end his fast without a response from the government, despite appeals from senior political leaders, stating that doing so would send the "wrong message." The court's intervention has placed renewed focus on ensuring both the activist's constitutional rights and his medical safety during the ongoing protest.