Delhi Police hospitalise Sonam Wangchuk who was on an indefinite hunger strike

Abhijit Dipke has now taken Wangchuk's place in the indefinite hunger strike

New Delhi – Social activist Sonam Wangchuk, who had been on an indefinite hunger strike at Jantar Mantar here for the past 21 days, was taken to Safdarjung Hospital by the Delhi Police early in the morning. This led to a commotion and alleged police lathi-charge against the protesters. The police had also detained the protest organizer, Abhijit Dipke, but he was subsequently released. Dipke has now announced an indefinite hunger strike and has commenced his fast at the site. He also declared, “We will fulfill the resolve to march to the Parliament on July 20.”

1. In this regard, the Delhi Police stated on ‘X’ that Sonam Wangchuk was hospitalised for urgent medical treatment due to deteriorating health and in accordance with the Delhi High Court orders as well as expert medical advice. Protesters attempted to hinder the enforcement of the High Court’s order, leading to some commotion. However, the police exercised extreme restraint and safely carried out the operation. They urged the protesters at Jantar Mantar to vacate the site promptly and peacefully.

2. Deputy Commissioner of Police Sachin Sharma stated that there was no lathi-charge on the protesters and no one was taken into custody.

3. July 18 marked the 21^st day of the hunger strike initiated by Wangchuk to demand the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over irregularities concerning various national examinations. Following Sonam Wangchuk’s hospitalisation, the police are clearing the protesters from Jantar Mantar.