NEW DELHI: A plea has been filed before the Delhi high court seeking to force-feed activist Sonam Wangchuk as his hunger strike entered its 18th day. It seeks urgent directions to the Centre and the Delhi government to shift the activist to a government hospital as concerns grow over his deteriorating health during an indefinite hunger strike at Delhi’s Jantar Mantar.
The petition, filed by activist lawyer Rakesh Kumar Saini, comes as organisers claim that Sonam Wangchuk has lost around 8.5 kg.
According to the petition, Wangchuk’s condition has worsened significantly, and he could lose his life within two days if the hunger strike continues. It urged the court to intervene immediately, arguing that saving his life is of paramount importance.
The petition argued that the authorities should shift Wangchuk to a government hospital and, if necessary, administer a medically supervised liquid diet containing essential nutrients, vitamins and minerals to prevent his condition from worsening.
It maintained that such intervention, even if carried out against his wishes, was necessary to preserve his life.
“The simple thing to be done is to take him to a government hospital and force feed him the necessary nutrients, vitamins and minerals by way of a liquid diet which are necessary for the human body to survive,” it said.
“If he passes away, it would be a matter of great shame for the country and the world,” the plea further stated.
The PIL accused the government of failing in its duty of care towards the activist.
It alleged that the government was treating Wangchuk “like a hardcore criminal, terrorist or traitor to the nation” and was “not at all concerned about him”. The petition argued that the authorities should ensure he receives medical care, even against his wishes if necessary.
