Sonam Wangchuk Transferred to Medanta Hospital Amid Protests

Ladakhi climate activist Sonam Wangchuk was transferred from Safdarjung Hospital in Delhi to Medanta Hospital in Gurugram late on July 21. This move was executed under tight security following a formal directive from the Delhi High Court. The court intervened to ensure Wangchuk receives specialized medical attention for his deteriorating health, which worsened during an ongoing hunger strike initiated after he was detained by Delhi Police at the national capital's border.

Wangchuk’s movement centers on demands for the implementation of the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution for the Union Territory of Ladakh, which would provide local governance safeguards and environmental protections. His campaign has galvanized widespread support across India and among the global diaspora, with protests erupting in cities like Hyderabad, New York, and San Jose. In Delhi, the 'Chalo Sansad' and 'Cockroach Janata Party' (CJP) protest marches at Jantar Mantar have led to significant unrest, with participants showing solidarity by sending food to the protest site to counter the effects of the police crackdown.

The protest has faced a heavy police response, including the use of lathis and tear gas. Delhi Police have filed four separate FIRs against unknown persons, citing offenses like rioting, damaging public property, and assaulting public servants. Supporters worry these charges might be used as a gateway for anti-terror provisions, mirroring previous crackdowns. The government now faces immense pressure to initiate a dialogue with Ladakhi representatives. Observers are closely monitoring Wangchuk’s medical status at Medanta and the administration’s potential response to the demands for administrative transparency and statehood for Ladakh.