Delhi HC declines urgent hearing on plea challenging Sonam Wangchuk's shift to hospital

The Delhi High Court on Monday declined to accord an urgent hearing to a petition challenging the transfer of climate activist Sonam Wangchuk from Jantar Mantar to a hospital by Delhi Police following his prolonged hunger strike.

The plea sought immediate judicial intervention, alleging that Wangchuk was moved without his consent and questioning the legality of the police action. However, the court did not agree to list the matter on an urgent basis, indicating that it would be heard in the normal course.

Petition challenges police action

The petition argued that Wangchuk, who had been on an indefinite hunger strike in support of environmental and constitutional demands, was shifted from the protest site without following due legal procedure.

The petitioner also sought directions regarding Wangchuk's continued medical treatment and requested that the court examine whether his constitutional rights had been violated.

Court declines immediate listing

During the mentioning of the case, the Delhi High Court declined to treat the matter as one requiring an urgent hearing.

While refusing immediate listing, the court did not express any opinion on the merits of the petition. The case is expected to come up before the court according to the regular schedule.

Background of the controversy

The legal challenge comes days after Delhi Police removed Wangchuk from his hunger strike at Jantar Mantar and admitted him to VMMC & Safdarjung Hospital, citing concerns over his deteriorating health after nearly three weeks without food.

Police have maintained that the decision was taken on medical advice to safeguard the activist's life and ensure he received appropriate treatment.

Supporters of Wangchuk, however, have criticised the move, alleging that he was taken away against his wishes and describing the operation as an infringement of his right to peaceful protest.

Political row continues

The incident has sparked sharp political reactions, with opposition parties accusing the Centre of suppressing democratic dissent and demanding greater transparency over the circumstances of Wangchuk's removal.

The government has defended the police action, stating that protecting the life and health of the activist was the priority and that the intervention was carried out in accordance with medical recommendations.

As protests continue in parts of the national capital, the legal proceedings before the Delhi High Court are expected to remain closely watched.