The Delhi High Court has called upon the Central and Delhi governments for a response regarding a public interest litigation (PIL) aimed at intervening in the hunger strike of activist Sonam Wangchuk. The court’s attention was drawn to this urgent matter as Wangchuk, currently on a hunger strike at Jantar Mantar in Delhi, has been demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.
The PIL, filed by activist lawyer Rakesh Kumar Saini, was presented before Chief Justice Devendra Kumar Upadhyay and Justice Tejas Karia. Saini emphasized the critical nature of Wangchuk’s protest, describing it as an act of self-harm in front of the nation. Recognizing the urgency, the court has scheduled a hearing for the petition on July 16.
“There is no representative from the Union of India present. We acknowledge the petition and will address it tomorrow, requiring the government to provide instructions,” the Bench stated. Consequently, the court directed that copies of the petition be delivered to the legal representatives of both the Central and Delhi governments. “Given the urgency, we will list it for tomorrow and serve the learned Additional Solicitor General and Standing Counsel of NCT,” the court ordered.
The petitioner has requested the court to instruct the authorities to hospitalize Wangchuk and administer necessary nourishment through force if required. According to the petition, Wangchuk’s health is deteriorating rapidly, with an alarming weight loss of 8.5 kg. The plea warns that if his hunger strike continues, his life could be at risk within two days, potentially bringing shame to the nation.
Wangchuk commenced his indefinite hunger strike on June 28, aligning with protests organized by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) at Jantar Mantar. These protests call for the resignation of the education minister due to purported question paper leaks and other irregularities in the education system. The CJP, initially an online satirical movement started by Boston resident Dipke, has gained significant traction on social media, especially among the youth. The movement critiques issues such as unemployment, institutional accountability, and media freedom.
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The PIL argues that the government’s treatment of Wangchuk is akin to handling a criminal or traitor, showing little concern for his well-being. It advocates for immediate medical intervention, even by force, to preserve his life. The petition suggests administering a liquid diet rich in essential nutrients, vitamins, and minerals to sustain his health.
Saini’s plea underscores the necessity of preserving the moral conscience of the courts, contrasting it with the alleged apathy of the nation. The petition seeks directives for the Central and Delhi governments to forcefully feed Wangchuk to prevent any fatal outcome.
The Delhi High Court is set to hear this significant PIL, which seeks to ensure that necessary medical aid is provided to activist Sonam Wangchuk during his protest at Jantar Mantar in Delhi.
