Regarding the health of Sonam Wangchuk, who was on hunger strike for 19 days, Delhi High Court directed the government to ensure regular medical check-up and necessary treatment.
Sonam Wangchuk Hunger Strike Day 19: The indefinite hunger strike of Ladakh social activist Sonam Wangchuk continues for the 19th consecutive day. In view of his deteriorating health, the Delhi High Court has directed the government to conduct regular medical checkups and provide immediate treatment if needed. Wangchuk has been on a fast since joining the ‘Cockroach Janata Party (CJP)’ protests against Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.
Every citizen’s life is precious – court
During the hearing on Thursday, July 16, the Delhi High Court said that whatever necessary medical assistance should be provided to save the life of Sonam Wangchuk. The court clearly said that the life of every citizen is important and it is the responsibility of the administration to take every possible step for his safety and health.
Serious concern regarding health expressed in the petition
The matter came to light during the hearing of a petition filed on Wednesday. The petition said that if 59-year-old Sonam Wangchuk did not end her fast soon, her life could be in serious danger. The petitioner also accused the government of not showing sufficient sensitivity towards their situation.
Claims to have lost 8.5 kg weight, demands medical help
It was told in the petition that during the hunger strike, Sonam Wangchuk’s weight has reduced by about 8.5 kg. It was suggested that if necessary, they should be admitted to a government hospital and provided with necessary nutrition, vitamins and minerals so that their health can be protected. The petition also said that peaceful demonstration in a public place is a fundamental and democratic right of every citizen. It was also argued that if any serious incident happens to Wangchuk during this period, it will send a wrong message to the country and internationally.
Court questions the government on medical monitoring
During the hearing, the High Court asked the government how Wangchuk’s medical monitoring was being done. Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, appearing for the government, said that his health check-up is being done daily, although not every time the government doctors do the check-up and sometimes private doctors are also involved in it. On this, the court said that regular and daily medical check-ups should be ensured by government doctors. The court also said that necessary treatment should be done on the basis of medical report and if needed, medicines and other medical facilities should be provided immediately.
Sonam Wangchuk released video message
Hours before the court order, Sonam Wangchuk released a video message. He said that despite the long fast, his condition is normal as per hunger strike. He told that he is feeling weak in his body and his muscles are getting tired, but his morale is strong.
Refused to end the fast
Wangchuk said ending the fast on the basis of appeal alone would not give the right message. They said that they will continue their agitation until their demands are taken forward properly. Sonam Wangchuk appealed to the people to turn out in large numbers for the CJP protest to be held at Jantar Mantar in Delhi on 20th July. He said that it is necessary to take this issue to the MPs so that their demands can be seriously considered. He also appealed to school and college students to join the movement.
What is CJP’s movement?
The CJP movement led by Abhijeet Dipke is demanding the resignation or removal of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. The movement says that accountability should be fixed for the frequent cases of question paper leak in competitive examinations, especially the controversies related to the NEET-UG examination held on May 3.