NEW DELHI — Activist Sonam Wangchuk has alleged that he was subjected to harsh isolation and stringent security measures while hospitalized following his removal from a protest site in the national capital.
Wangchuk had been on an indefinite fast at Jantar Mantar in solidarity with student protests over national paper leaks before being relocated to medical care under court and police directives on July 18.
Claims of Movement & Communication Restrictions
Detailing his treatment at Safdarjung Hospital and subsequently at a private facility in Gurugram, Wangchuk and his family raised concerns regarding his physical custody:
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Strict Communication Lockdown: The activist stated he was denied access to electronic devices and that written notes passed to supporters were periodically confiscated by personnel.
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Family & Visitor Limits: Entry was restricted strictly to select family members, with heavy security posted outside his room and throughout the medical facility.
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Questioning Authority: Wangchuk’s wife, Gitanjali Angmo, publicly challenged the presence of hundreds of police officers across hospital entry points, noting that the Delhi High Court had clarified he was not under formal arrest or detention.
Conclusion of Fast & Official Commitments
The hunger strike ended after midnight on Thursday following written assurances from the Union Government addressing the core grievances:
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No Retaliatory Legal Action: Clear assurance that no criminal charges or cases will be brought against activists participating in the recent ‘Sansad Chalo’ march.
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Parliamentary Focus on Exam Integrity: A commitment to conduct a formal discussion in Parliament regarding competitive exam leaks and system reforms.
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Relief for Affected Families: Consideration of financial compensation for families of students impacted by recent paper leak controversies.
