Delhi Police moved Sonam Wangchuk from the Jantar Mantar protest site to Safdarjung Government Hospital after his indefinite hunger strike entered its 21st day. The case matters for UPSC because it combines public order, judicial oversight, and the constitutional space for peaceful protest in New Delhi.
What happened
Sonam Wangchuk, who was demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, was taken from the protest site to hospital. The move followed a brief shutdown of mobile internet in the area and came soon after court-related security action at the site.
Wangchuk’s wife said she, along with his personal physician and lawyer, was not being allowed access. She also said Wangchuk was refusing specific medical interventions while hospitalised. The Delhi Deputy Commissioner of Police said the transfer followed a Delhi High Court order to monitor Wangchuk’s health closely, while also clarifying that the court did not directly order hospitalisation.
Background and earlier position
The protest had been centred at Jantar Mantar, a frequent site for demonstrations in Delhi. Supporters feared the site could be cleared overnight by police, which prompted calls to gather there.
Related current affairs
- ‘Wangchuk not alone’: at least 21 refuse to end fast
- Hunger strike day 21: Police shift Wangchuk to hospital
- HC rejects plea to transfer Wangchuk from Safdarjung
- Delhi HC seeks medical reports of Wangchuk
- Wangchuk gone, spotlight moves to Dipke
- Sonam Wangchuk shifted from Safdarjung Hospital to Medanta after HC order