Sonam Wangchuk "On His Deathbed" as Doctors Warn of Critical Health Risks; Support Grows

Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk is entering the 4th week of his indefinite hunger strike while the doctors warn that prolonged fasting could begin affecting his organs. The Delhi High Court ordered daily medical monitoring while political support for the protest continued to grow.

Sonam Wangchuk's Health Worsens as Hunger Strike Reaches Day 20

The concerns over Sonam Wangchuk's health further grew as Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) founder Abhijeet Dipke wrote that the activist was "on his deathbed" and was "very weak".

Wangchuk had almost stumbled twice while going to the washroom, Dipke told in a video made by the party. Wangchuk was seen in slow motion walking on the protest site at Jantar Mantar in Delhi.

Extreme Fasting Could Impact Key Organs, Doctors Warn

Doctors who are observing Sonam Wangchuk said that he was in the late stages of prolonged fasting and the body's organs might start to be affected.

The latest medical bulletin released by Dr Satish Lamba reveals that Wangchuk has lost over 9 kg since his hunger strike started on 28 June and currently weighs 56.9 kg. He was listed as having a ketone level of 3 plus before it dropped to 2 plus with improved hydration, the bulletin added. But the concentration of uric acid stayed elevated, suggesting that muscle loss continued.  Wangchuk is currently being medically monitored round-the-clock, doctors said, adding that prompt action is needed.

Must read: The Teacher Who Inspired Millions ‘May Die in 2 Days’ as Sonam Wangchuk’s Hunger Strike Enters Day 18 

Delhi High Court Orders Daily Monitoring

The government's first official response to the hunger strike is about medical assistance and not the cause of the protest. The Delhi High Court, which had heard a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) in the case of Wangchuk, had asked the government to keep an eye on him daily and provide him immediate medical assistance in case his health deteriorates further.

“The life of every citizen is precious and it is our duty to protect that life by taking all the necessary medical measures,” the court said.

Appearing for the Centre and the Delhi government, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta informed the court that there was no objection to regular medical examinations.

Sonam Wangchuk Says He Will Continue the Fast

Even as the health issues mount up, Sonam Wangchuk has said he will continue his protest through starvation. His message, posted on Wednesday night, stated that a "medical examination" had shown no "immediate danger.” While acknowledging weakness and muscle loss, he said his heart and other vital functions remained stable.

“If there is no action by the government, it would be misleading to end the fast,” Wangchuk added. He also called for the March to Parliament to be stronger on 20 July.

Protest Against Alleged Examination Irregularities

Sonam Wangchuk joined the indefinite hunger strike at Delhi's Jantar Mantar on 28 June after becoming part of protests organised by the Cockroach Janata Party.

The protest is calling for the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan in the wake of alleged irregularities in competitive exams, such as the leakage of NEET papers.

Political Leaders and Organisations Show Support

Protest support continued to rise on Thursday. Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah criticised the Centre for not engaging with Wangchuk, while Aam Aadmi Party national convenor Arvind Kejriwal visited him at Jantar Mantar and expressed solidarity. The Supreme Court Bar Association also called on Wangchuk to break the hunger strike.

The CJP, meanwhile, said that approximately 1.5 lakh people had confirmed their presence for the planned march on July 20 to Parliament.

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Aamir Khan Breaks Silence on Sonam Wangchuk's Hunger Strike

Actor Aamir Khan has finally reacted to Sonam Wangchuk's hunger strike, expressing concern for the activist's health while dismissing the long-standing belief that Wangchuk inspired the character Phunsukh Wangdu in 3 Idiots. Speaking at the British Film Institute (BFI), Aamir said, "No, that's not true, actually. That is a misconception," clarifying that neither he, director Rajkumar Hirani nor writer Abhijat Joshi knew Wangchuk when the film was made. On Wangchuk's health, Aamir said, "We are all very concerned about his health and his life. We hope that it ends well."

This reveal is not something new as Sonam Wangchuk has always consistently distanced himself from the character Phunsukh Wangdu from the film "3 Idiots." He has stated that he was never consulted during the making of the film and did not give consent for his life or work to be used. Wangchuk has clarified that while the character could have been inspired from him, it was not based on him. He has expressed that he is not proud of the association with the film and does not want people in this country to accept something simply because it is associated with a film. Wangchuk's stance has been supported by various actors, including Omi Vaidya, who has publicly voiced his concern for Wangchuk's health during the activist's hunger strike.

What Happens Next?

Now, as Sonam Wangchuk's hunger strike has been in its third week, there is a focus on what the state is doing to address his ailments, directions of the Delhi High Court and whether the government accedes to the protesters' demands.

The coming days are expected to be crucial, as doctors continue to monitor Wangchuk's health while supporters prepare for the proposed Parliament march. An official government response or other medical updates could have a major impact on the protest.