'Feeling very fine': Wangchuk seeks discharge from hospital to join 'Chalo Sansad' march

Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk requested temporary release from Safdarjung Hospital on Monday to take part in the "Sansad Chalo" march to Parliament, stating in a handwritten letter that he felt "very fine" and his health parameters were "quite normal." Wangchuk, who has been in hospital since May after beginning a hunger strike, wrote to the hospital’s director and medical superintendent asking for permission to leave, even briefly, to join the protest. His letter, dated July 20, noted that his vital signs remained stable and that he believed his condition allowed him to participate in the public demonstration. He expressed gratitude for the hospital staff’s care while emphasizing his desire to engage in civic activities. On social media, Wangchuk shared the letter alongside a message challenging the ongoing restrictions on his movement. “Sonam Wangchuk is trying hard to see you all! Just submitted a letter to the hospital as his health is good and they claim he is not in detention. So why the restrictions?” the post read. This statement reflects growing public interest in the activist’s case and highlights tensions surrounding his hospitalization. In response, Safdarjung Hospital reiterated its stance that Wangchuk requires uninterrupted medical care due to the physical toll of his extended fast. A health bulletin released on Monday confirmed that although his vital signs remain stable, his blood parameters still necessitate close clinical observation. The hospital emphasized that he is being managed by a multidisciplinary team of specialists and that continued treatment is essential to prevent potential complications. The hospital also stated that Wangchuk is receiving all necessary medical interventions and that his condition is being monitored regularly. Doctors from both VMMC & Safdarjung Hospital and AIIMS, New Delhi, have advised against his premature discharge, citing the need for sustained medical oversight. This situation follows months of controversy over Wangchuk’s detention and treatment. Since April, the activist has been hospitalized after initiating a hunger strike to demand greater environmental protections and political accountability. His actions have drawn widespread attention, with supporters arguing that his health should not be used as a tool for political leverage. Despite repeated requests for release, authorities have maintained that his condition warrants continued confinement. The government has cited the risks associated with prolonged fasting and the importance of maintaining medical stability during such periods. Critics, however, argue that these justifications lack transparency and fail to address broader concerns about the use of detention as a means of control. As the "Sansad Chalo" march approaches, the debate over Wangchuk’s rights and freedoms intensifies. Activists and human rights groups have called for immediate access to legal representation and independent medical assessments. Meanwhile, the hospital continues to assert that its decisions are based on clinical necessity rather than political considerations. The outcome of this dispute will likely depend on whether the authorities agree to a compromise allowing Wangchuk limited participation in the march while ensuring his health is not compromised. For now, the activist remains in hospital, awaiting a resolution that balances public engagement with medical responsibility.