Sonam Wangchuk refuses treatment after hospitalisation following 20-day hunger strike
Activist Sonam Wangchuk has refused medical treatment after being admitted to Delhi's Safdarjung Hospital following a 20-day hunger strike, according to a health bulletin issued by the hospital on Saturday.
Wangchuk was shifted to the hospital by Delhi Police earlier in the day after being removed from the Jantar Mantar protest site, where he had been fasting to demand the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over the NEET paper leak controversy.
Hospital Says Wangchuk declined treatment
In its medical bulletin, Safdarjung Hospital said Wangchuk had refused intravenous fluids, oral rehydration solution and all other medications recommended by doctors.
"Although intravenous fluids were advised, the patient has refused all intravenous fluids, oral rehydration solution and any other medication," the hospital said.
Doctors added that Wangchuk remains under continuous observation and is being counselled to accept treatment in view of his deteriorating health.
Admitted with dehydration after 20-day fast
The 59-year-old activist was brought to the hospital by Delhi Police and admitted at 7:40 am after completing 20 days of fasting.
According to the hospital, Wangchuk was conscious at the time of admission and had stable pulse, blood pressure and oxygen saturation levels.
However, doctors noted signs of dehydration and generalised weakness.
Wife seeks discharge, raises concerns
Soon after his hospitalisation, Wangchuk's wife, Gitanjali J. Angmo, urged the hospital not to administer any treatment without her consent and sought his discharge.
She also alleged a lack of transparency regarding his medical care.
Police cite High Court's directive
Delhi Police said Wangchuk was shifted to the hospital in compliance with directions issued by the Delhi High Court and based on medical advice.
The move came two days after the High Court instructed the Centre and the Delhi government to "do whatever it takes" to save the activist's life and ordered continuous monitoring of his health.
Health concerns intensify
Doctors attending to Wangchuk during his protest had warned on Thursday that he had lost around 9 kg during the hunger strike and faced the risk of damage to vital organs if the fast continued.
Despite those concerns, Wangchuk has continued to refuse treatment, even as medical teams monitor his condition closely.
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