"Court Says: 'We'll Hear You—Just Don't Expect Fast-Track Justice.'"

The Delhi High Court on Sunday heard the petition related to environmental activist Sonam Wangchuk and declined to grant interim relief while issuing a notice to the Central Government. The court also directed authorities to provide a separate rest room for Wangchuk's wife, Geetanjali Angmo, and his companions, while ensuring they continue to have access to meet him at the hospital. The hearing took place before the Delhi High Court, where senior advocates Kapil Sibal and Vivek Tankha appeared on behalf of Sonam Wangchuk. Additional Solicitor General (ASG) Chetan Sharma represented the Central Government. While refusing to pass an interim order, the court instructed the Centre to respond to the petition and ensured that Wangchuk's family members and associates receive appropriate facilities during his hospitalization. Petition Filed by Wife The case stems from a petition filed by Wangchuk's wife, Geetanjali Angmo, who alleged that hospital authorities had repeatedly refused requests to discharge him or transfer him to a private hospital of their choice. Meanwhile, Sonam Wangchuk remains under medical care at Safdarjung Hospital. According to the latest medical bulletin, his vital parameters remain stable despite concerns arising from his prolonged hunger strike. Kapil Sibal Seeks Wangchuk's Release Opening the arguments, senior advocate Kapil Sibal told the court that Wangchuk should be released and allowed to receive treatment at Medanta Hospital, with whom the family had already consulted. Sibal argued that Wangchuk and his legal team had been denied access to his lawyers and personal doctors. He maintained that Wangchuk, not being under formal detention, has the constitutional right to choose the hospital where he wishes to receive treatment. Centre Defends Medical Care Representing the Centre, ASG Chetan Sharma referred to the High Court's July 16 order, which directed regular monitoring by government doctors and medical intervention whenever required. Presenting Wangchuk's medical status, Sharma informed the court that Wangchuk is not diabetic. However, his 18-day fast has affected his kidney function, and he is currently being administered sugar-free electrolytes. Sharma argued that Wangchuk should place confidence in government doctors like any other citizen and stated that authorities are fully complying with the court's previous directions. The Centre also informed the court that Wangchuk could be shifted to the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) if necessary. Court Seeks Clarification on Caretakers The bench asked whether Wangchuk's attendants had been provided with a separate place to stay during his hospitalization. ASG Sharma confirmed that suitable accommodation had already been arranged. The court subsequently directed that Wangchuk's wife and companions should continue receiving access to meet him while ensuring proper facilities are available for them. Doctors Express Medical Concerns Dr. Akshay, an Additional Professor at AIIMS involved in Wangchuk's treatment, informed the court that he is being administered oral sugar-free electrolytes and potassium. The doctor stated that intravenous vitamins are medically recommended, but Wangchuk has declined the treatment. According to the medical team, several of his health indicators remain at borderline levels, while his blood sugar and potassium levels are significantly low. Doctors emphasized that he urgently requires carbohydrates and potassium to prevent further complications. Debate Over Choice of Hospital Kapil Sibal argued that Wangchuk is a free citizen and therefore has the legal right to receive treatment at a hospital of his own choosing. He pointed out that Wangchuk was not a party to the court's July 16 order and questioned how the government could deny his request for treatment at a private medical institution. The bench then asked why there appeared to be a lack of confidence in government doctors. Responding to the court, Sibal clarified that Wangchuk has no distrust of government doctors. He said the family was willing to cooperate with any treatment arrangement but simply wanted treatment to be conducted at a hospital of their own choice, adding that AIIMS doctors could participate in the medical process if required. Government Rejects Allegations ASG Chetan Sharma maintained that the government is fulfilling its responsibilities with utmost seriousness and is taking every precaution regarding Wangchuk's health. During the hearing, a doctor informed the court that Wangchuk had expressed concerns about trust in the treating medical team. Sibal, however, claimed that Wangchuk's blood pressure was rising and alleged that a police officer was stationed inside his hospital room, making it difficult for proper medical treatment. Sharma strongly denied this allegation, telling the court that no police personnel were present inside Wangchuk's hospital room. Wife Alleges Illegal Detention In her petition, Geetanjali Angmo alleged that despite repeated requests, hospital authorities have refused to discharge Wangchuk or permit his transfer to a private hospital. She further claimed that nearly 30 police personnel were stationed outside the hospital ward and over 100 officers were deployed throughout the hospital premises, restricting the movement of family members and visitors. Describing the situation as an "illegal detention" rather than routine medical care, Angmo urged the court to intervene and protect Wangchuk's rights. What Happens Next? With the Delhi High Court issuing notice to the Central Government but declining interim relief, the matter will now proceed through further hearings after the Centre files its response. Meanwhile, Wangchuk remains under treatment at Safdarjung Hospital, where doctors continue to monitor his condition as legal proceedings continue.