Delhi High Court asks Centre, Delhi govt. to respond to plea on Wangchuk’s deteriorating health
The Delhi High Court has requested responses from the Centre and Delhi government regarding a public interest litigation (PIL) seeking urgent intervention for climate activist Sonam Wangchuk, who is on an indefinite hunger strike. The plea, citing his deteriorating health, urges authorities to provide medical assistance, potentially including force-feeding, to safeguard his life.
Why it matters
This case underscores the legal and ethical complexities surrounding hunger strikes by activists, raising questions about the state's responsibility to preserve life, even against an individual's will, and the right to protest.
The Delhi High Court on Wednesday(July 15, 2026) sought the responses of the Centre and the Delhi government on a public interest litigation (PIL) seeking urgent intervention to safeguard the health of climate activist Sonam Wangchuk, who is on an indefinite hunger strike at Jantar Mantar.
A Bench of Chief Justice Devendra Kumar Upadhyaya and Justice Tejas Karia asked the Centre and the Delhi government to respond on the plea by tomorrow due to the “urgent” nature of the issue.
Advocate and social activist Rakesh Kumar Saini filed the petition, contending that Mr. Wangchuk’s health had deteriorated after several days of fasting and urged the authorities to take immediate steps to protect his life.
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