Sonam Wangchuk's Wife Challenges Delhi HC Order, Calls It 'Illegal Confinement'
Sonam Wangchuk's wife has challenged the Delhi High Court order that requires the environmental activist to remain at Safdarjung Hospital, arguing that it amounts to illegal confinement. The appeal, filed on Tuesday, seeks to set aside the court's directive, which was issued in connection with Wangchuk's ongoing hunger strike.
Wangchuk, a noted climate activist and education reformer from Ladakh, has been on a hunger strike demanding constitutional safeguards for the region's unique cultural and environmental identity. He was admitted to Safdarjung Hospital on March 10 after his health deteriorated. The Delhi High Court, acting on a public interest petition, ordered the hospital to keep him under observation and treatment, effectively restricting his movement.
In her petition, Wangchuk's wife contended that the order infringes upon his personal liberty and dignity, as guaranteed under Article 21 of the Constitution. She argued that the court cannot compel a person to receive medical treatment against their will, especially when the individual is exercising a legitimate form of protest. The petition further stated that the confinement is 'illegal and arbitrary'.
The Delhi High Court had earlier appointed a medical board to monitor Wangchuk's condition and report his fitness. The court had also directed that he be given all necessary medical care. However, the activist's family maintains that he should be allowed to leave the hospital if he chooses, and that the court's intervention is unwarranted.
The case highlights the legal and ethical questions surrounding court-ordered medical treatment during protests. Activists and legal experts have expressed concern that such orders could set a precedent for curbing peaceful dissent. The Supreme Court is likely to hear the appeal soon.
Wangchuk's hunger strike has drawn attention to Ladakh's demand for special status under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution, which would grant the region greater autonomy in environmental and cultural matters. The protest has gained support from various civil society groups and political leaders across the country.
