Sonam Wangchuk's wife files appeal against Delhi HC order on hospital transfer
- Gitanjali Angmo has appealed against the Delhi High Court order refusing to shift Sonam Wangchuk to Medanta hospital.
- Wangchuk seeks temporary discharge to join a march to Parliament led by the Central Jail Parishad.
- Former CJI K.G. Balakrishnan has backed Wangchuk's hospitalisation, saying his life must be saved.
Appeal filed against high court order
Gitanjali Angmo, the wife of climate activist Sonam Wangchuk, has moved an appeal against the Delhi High Court's refusal to transfer him from Safdarjung Hospital to Medanta Hospital. The appeal argues that the high court's order effectively confines Wangchuk illegally within the government hospital.
The petition challenges the court's reasoning and demands that Wangchuk be allowed to choose his own medical facility. Angmo's legal team contends that continued detention at Safdarjung violates his fundamental rights.
Activist seeks temporary discharge for parliament march
Sonam Wangchuk has also sought temporary discharge from Safdarjung Hospital to participate in a march to Parliament organised by the Central Jail Parishad (CJP). The activist, known for his work in Ladakh, has been hospitalised since his arrest during a protest.
His request comes amid growing political and legal attention on his health condition. The CJP march is expected to draw supporters demanding judicial and prison reforms.
Former CJI backs Wangchuk's medical needs
Former Chief Justice of India K.G. Balakrishnan has publicly supported Wangchuk's hospitalisation, stating that his life must be saved. Balakrishnan's remarks have added weight to the calls for proper medical care for the activist.
The former CJI's intervention highlights the seriousness of Wangchuk's condition. Legal experts say his backing could influence public opinion but may not directly affect court proceedings.
Legal battle intensifies
The Delhi High Court had earlier refused to order Wangchuk's transfer to Medanta, a private hospital. The court cited ongoing treatment at Safdarjung and said no immediate threat to his life was established.
Angmo's appeal now argues that the high court failed to consider Wangchuk's deteriorating health and his right to choose medical treatment. The case is expected to be heard in the coming days.
Officials have not yet confirmed Wangchuk's current medical status. The hospital administration has not commented on the appeal.
The next hearing will determine whether Wangchuk can be moved to a private facility or temporarily discharged. The outcome could set a precedent for the rights of activists under medical detention.