Activist Sonam Wangchuk was transferred to Medanta Hospital in Gurugram on Tuesday while continuing his 25-day hunger strike. BJP leaders JP Nadda and Jitendra Singh visited him in the ICU, though the details of the discussion were not shared. Doctors are currently monitoring his electrolyte levels to manage the health risks associated with prolonged fasting.
Detailed Coverage
Activist Sonam Wangchuk was moved from Safdarjung Hospital to Medanta Hospital in Gurugram on July 21, 2026, marking the 25th day of his indefinite hunger strike. The transfer was facilitated by the Delhi Police following a court order that granted the activist the right to choose his medical facility. Wangchuk is currently under observation in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), where he remains committed to continuing his protest.
Following his admission to Medanta Hospital, BJP National President JP Nadda and Union Minister Jitendra Singh visited Wangchuk. The meeting lasted approximately ten minutes in the ICU. While the purpose and content of this interaction remain private, the visit comes amid ongoing public and political attention regarding the activist's health and the issues surrounding his protest.
Medical Monitoring and Risks
A specialized medical team is actively managing Wangchuk’s health, focusing on the physiological toll of an extended fast. The doctors have ordered comprehensive blood tests to assess his stability, with a possible transfer to a private ward dependent on his recovery. The primary medical concern during prolonged fasting involves electrolyte imbalances, specifically drops in sodium and potassium levels, which are essential for maintaining heart and nerve function.
The human body typically responds to extreme calorie restriction by breaking down muscle and fat stores for glucose, which can lead to rapid weight loss and metabolic stress. Medical professionals are particularly vigilant about the risks of refeeding syndrome, a potentially severe complication that can occur if the body is introduced to food too quickly after a long period of starvation. This syndrome can cause dangerous shifts in electrolytes, necessitating cautious and gradual medical intervention. The next updates regarding his status will likely focus on his electrolyte stabilization and his ability to safely transition out of intensive care.