Sonam Wangchuk Refuses Medical Treatment After 20-Day Hunger Strike, Says Safdarjung Hospital

Activist Sonam Wangchuk has refused intravenous fluids, oral rehydration solution and medicines despite signs of dehydration and metabolic abnormalities, according to Safdarjung Hospital, where he was admitted after a 20-day hunger strike.

The 59-year-old was shifted to the Delhi government-run hospital on Saturday after his health reportedly deteriorated during his indefinite fast at Jantar Mantar. Delhi Police said the move was made on medical advice and in accordance with directions issued by the Delhi High Court.

According to a health bulletin issued by the hospital, Wangchuk was admitted on Saturday morning with a history of prolonged fasting and complaints of generalised weakness. While he was conscious and his vital parameters were stable at the time of admission, doctors observed signs of dehydration.

The hospital said medical tests indicated metabolic changes associated with prolonged fasting, including low serum potassium levels and elevated urinary ketones. Doctors advised intravenous fluids and supportive treatment.

"Although intravenous fluids were advised, the patient has refused all intravenous fluids, oral rehydration fluid or any other medication," the hospital said in its statement, adding that Wangchuk was being continuously monitored and counselled to accept treatment.

Sources familiar with the matter said doctors were also in contact with Wangchuk's family regarding his medical care.

Meanwhile, Wangchuk's wife, Gitanjali J Angmo, wrote to the hospital administration requesting that no medication or fluids be administered without her consent. She also sought copies of his medical reports and requested that he be discharged so that he could be shifted to a medical facility of the family's choice.

In separate communications to the hospital, Angmo alleged a lack of transparency regarding Wangchuk's treatment and claimed that repeated requests for medical records had not been fulfilled. She maintained that Wangchuk was "absolutely fine" and said the planned Parliament march on July 20 would continue as scheduled.

Wangchuk began his indefinite hunger strike on June 28 in support of protests over alleged irregularities in the NEET and other examinations, as well as reported student deaths linked to the issue.

Doctors monitoring his condition said on Friday that he had lost nearly 9.5 kg since the fast began. Wangchuk had also stated that he intended to continue the hunger strike despite concerns over his health.

The latest hospital bulletin said Wangchuk remains under observation as doctors continue to monitor his condition and advise medical treatment.