The Delhi High Court on Wednesday (15 July) took up an urgent public interest litigation (PIL) seeking immediate medical intervention for climate activist Sonam Wangchuk, who has been on an indefinite hunger strike at Jantar Mantar. Recognising the urgency of the matter, the Court sought responses from the Central Government and the Delhi Government and listed the case for hearing the very next day.
The petition claims that Wangchuk's health has deteriorated significantly during the ongoing protest and urges authorities to take immediate steps to protect his life.
Background of the Case
The PIL has been filed by Advocate Rakesh Kumar Saini, who requested the Court to direct the authorities to shift Wangchuk to a government hospital and provide necessary medical treatment, including nutritional support under medical supervision if required.
According to the petition, Wangchuk has been observing an indefinite hunger strike since June 28 at Jantar Mantar. The protest is linked to demands that include the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over alleged examination irregularities.
The plea states that Wangchuk has reportedly lost more than eight kilograms during the fast and that his condition has become increasingly serious. It argues that the State has a constitutional responsibility to safeguard the life and health of every citizen, even while respecting the right to peaceful protest.
Court's Observations
The matter was heard by a Division Bench comprising Chief Justice Devendra Kumar Upadhyaya and Justice Tejas Karia.
When the petition was mentioned, the Bench noted that no one was present on behalf of the Union Government. Considering the urgency, the judges agreed to entertain the PIL without delay.
During the hearing, the Bench observed,
"Nobody is present on behalf of the Union of India. We are entertaining the petition. We will post the matter tomorrow itself and require them to seek instructions."
The Court also directed that copies of the petition be served on the Additional Solicitor General representing the Centre and the Standing Counsel for the Government of NCT of Delhi.
Petitioner's Submissions
Appearing in person, Advocate Rakesh Kumar Saini told the Court that the situation required immediate judicial intervention.
He submitted that,
"A social human rights activist who is on protest in exercise of his rights is committing harakiri in front of the whole nation."
The petition further contends that if Wangchuk's health continues to worsen without medical assistance, the consequences could be irreversible. It requests the Court to direct the authorities to provide appropriate medical treatment and ensure that his life is protected while his protest continues.
Court's Decision
Taking note of the urgency raised in the PIL, the Delhi High Court issued notice to the Union Government and the Delhi Government and directed them to obtain instructions before the next hearing.
The Bench ordered that copies of the petition be served on the concerned law officers and listed the matter for hearing on July 16, 2026.
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