NEW DELHI: In a significant development, jailed activist and former educationist Sonam Wangchuk was taken to the prestigious All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in Jodhpur for a comprehensive medical examination on Saturday. This move came following a directive from the Supreme Court of India, which had specifically sought his detailed medical report by February 2.
Supreme Court Intervention in Health Concerns
The 59-year-old activist, who has been raising alarms about his deteriorating health condition while in custody, was examined by medical specialists for approximately 90 minutes before being escorted back to Jodhpur Central Jail. Wangchuk has reportedly been suffering from persistent stomach-related ailments, which necessitated this specialized medical attention.
Background of the Case
Wangchuk has been lodged in Rajasthan's Jodhpur Central Jail since September 27 last year, following his arrest three days after a protest demanding statehood for his native Ladakh turned violent in Leh, the Union territory's capital. His detention is under the stringent provisions of the National Security Act.
Taking serious note of his worsening health condition, the Supreme Court on Thursday directed the Jodhpur jail administration to arrange for a thorough medical examination by a specialist doctor. The top court is currently hearing a writ petition filed by his wife, Geetanjali Angmo, challenging his detention under the National Security Act.
Court Proceedings and Medical History
During Thursday's hearing, a bench comprising Justices Arvind Kumar and PB Varale instructed jail authorities to ensure that Wangchuk receives examination by a specialist doctor—specifically a gastroenterologist—at a government hospital. This instruction came after detailed arguments from both sides.
Additional Solicitor General KM Nataraj, appearing for the Rajasthan government, informed the bench that jail doctors had examined Wangchuk an impressive 21 times over the past four months, with the most recent check-up conducted on January 26. However, senior advocate Kapil Sibal, representing Wangchuk, strongly objected to this submission.
Sibal argued that his client continues to suffer from persistent stomach pain, which he alleges is caused by the poor quality of water provided in the jail facility. The court accepted this argument, observing that medical treatment by a specialist must be provided in accordance with the patient's specific needs and requirements.
Previous Medical Visits and Ongoing Concerns
It is noteworthy that Wangchuk had also visited the hospital on Friday for preliminary medical tests, indicating the seriousness of his health concerns. The activist's health issues have been a matter of growing concern among his supporters and human rights organizations monitoring his case.
The Supreme Court's intervention highlights the judiciary's role in ensuring proper medical care for detainees, even those held under stringent laws. The medical report from AIIMS Jodhpur, expected by February 2, will likely play a crucial role in the ongoing legal proceedings concerning Wangchuk's detention.
This case continues to draw national attention, not only for its legal implications but also for the health and welfare concerns surrounding the detained activist who has been a prominent voice in the Ladakh statehood movement.
