New Delhi: Climate activist and social worker Sonam Wangchuk has received major relief from the Delhi High Court. On Tuesday, the court permitted his transfer from Delhi’s Safdarjung Hospital to Medanta Hospital in Gurugram for further treatment. The High Court directed that Wangchuk’s medical care at Medanta be overseen by a panel of specialist doctors. The order came in response to a petition filed by his wife, Gitanjali J. Angmo, who sought his transfer to a hospital of her choice, citing his deteriorating health after a prolonged hunger strike.
What instructions did the court give?
During the hearing, the Delhi High Court said that Sonam Wangchuk should be transferred to Medanta Hospital and all the medical tests, reports and treatment-related documents done so far at Safdarjung Hospital should be made available to Medanta. The court also directed that Medanta Hospital constitute a panel of expert doctors who will constantly monitor his health condition. Detailed orders in the case will be issued later.
What stand did the central government take?
On behalf of the Centre, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta said that the government has no objection to taking Wangchuk to Medanta. But he requested the court not to discharge Wangchuk from the hospital against the advice of doctors. He said that if you leave the treatment midway and then return to the protest site, there could be a big risk to your health.
What did the court say about health?
Citing Wangchuk’s medical report and the opinion of the doctors treating him, the high court said his condition still requires constant medical monitoring. The court said that there was agreement among the doctors that he needed treatment in the hospital. Although monitoring can take place in any competent hospital, given Wangchuk’s preference, transfer to Medanta Hospital would be appropriate.
What argument did the wife give in the petition?
Wangchuk’s wife, Gitanjali J. Angmo, had said in the petition filed in the court that due to the long-term hunger strike, her husband’s health is continuously deteriorating. She said that for better treatment, he should be admitted to a hospital like Medanta where all the specialists are present.
What was the stand of the court earlier?
Earlier, the Delhi High Court had upheld the decision of the central government, in which it was said that Wangchuk’s treatment should be continued at Safdarjung Hospital. But after new health-related circumstances and the central government not raising any objection to the transfer, the court changed its stand and allowed treatment at Medanta Hospital.
What will happen next?
Sonam Wangchuk will soon be shifted to Medanta Hospital following the court order. There, a panel of expert doctors will regularly monitor his health and prepare a further treatment plan. At the same time, the court also wants to ensure that his treatment continues without any hindrance and that his health condition improves.
