Sonam Wangchuk's health: Safdarjung hospital shares update; wife moves HC, says ‘if anything happens to Sonam...’

Published 19 July 2026 · health

Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk "requires continuous medical care under the close observation of a multidisciplinary team of experts," said the Vardhman Mahavir Medical College (VMMC)

Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk "requires continuous medical care under the close observation of a multidisciplinary team of experts," said the Vardhman Mahavir Medical College (VMMC) and Safdarjung Hospital in a health bulletin on Sunday, July 19. It stated, “Shri Sonam Wangchuk is being given the required medical intervention at VMMC & Safdarjung Hospital.” "His vital parameters are stable at present; however, his blood parameters remain marginally altered, and considering the physiological stress and systemic effects of prolonged fasting, he requires continuous medical care under the close observation of a multidisciplinary team of experts," the statement added. Quick answers to key questions • 5 QUESTIONS 1 What is Sonam Wangchuk's current health status after his hospitalization? ⌵ Sonam Wangchuk is currently being monitored at Safdarjung Hospital, where his vital parameters are stable, but he is showing signs of dehydration and continues to refuse treatment, including IV fluids. 2 Why did Sonam Wangchuk's wife move the high court regarding his treatment? ⌵ Gitanjali Angmo moved the high court due to her concerns over the hospital's handling of Wangchuk's health and her desire to shift him to a different medical facility of their choice, claiming a lack of transparency from the hospital. 3 How is the medical team addressing Sonam Wangchuk's dehydration? ⌵ The medical team at Safdarjung Hospital is continuously monitoring Sonam Wangchuk and has recommended IV fluids and oral rehydration solutions, which he continues to refuse despite counseling.

4 What claims have been made about Sonam Wangchuk's potassium levels during his hospital stay? ⌵ His wife has questioned the hospital's reports of low potassium levels, alleging discrepancies between their findings and a previous independent lab report that showed normal levels. 5 Should individuals on hunger strikes receive medical intervention if their condition deteriorates? ⌵ Yes, medical experts emphasize the necessity of intervention, such as administering IV fluids, to prevent critical complications arising from prolonged fasting, especially if the individual's health shows signs of decompensation. The hospital further informed that teams of doctors from VMMC and Safdarjung Hospital and AIIMS, New Delhi, "are of the considered opinion that sustained medical intervention and round-the-clock clinical monitoring are essential to promptly detect and manage any potential complications that may arise despite his currently stable condition." "Accordingly, all necessary medical care is being provided, and his clinical status, including his blood parameters, is being continuously monitored," it added. Wife says 'have lost faith in...' Sonam Wangchuk's wife, Gitanjali J Angmo, said in a post on Sunday that she has lost faith in the Safdarjung Government Hospital. She said she moved the high court, seeking an urgent hearing today, "praying for permission to shift Sonam before his health deteriorates further." She explained the reason for her mistrust, saying, “The hospital told us Wangchuk’s potassium had dropped to 2.9, describing it as alarming and life-threatening.