Sonam Wangchuk's Health Declines: Signs of Dehydration and Rising Ketones Reported

New Delhi, India Jul 18, 2026 ALN: Safdarjung Hospital has issued a medical bulletin regarding the health condition of activist Sonam Wangchuk, stating that he is showing signs of dehydration, compensated acidosis, low serum potassium, and rising urinary ketones. The bulletin was released around 3:30 p.m. on Saturday, detailing that Wangchuk continues to refuse intravenous fluids, oral rehydration, and medication.

Upon his admission, Wangchuk was conscious, with stable vital parameters including pulse, blood pressure, and oxygen saturation. However, medical examinations revealed dehydration and compensated acidosis, alongside a blood sugar level of 78 mg/dl. The hospital noted that urinary ketones, initially recorded at 1+ upon admission, increased to 3+ later in the day. The medical bulletin stated, “At the time of admission, he was conscious with stable pulse, blood pressure, and oxygen saturation. Signs of dehydration were seen. Blood gas analysis revealed compensated acidosis with decreased serum potassium and blood sugar of 78 mg/dl.”

Despite recommendations for intravenous fluids, Wangchuk has declined all forms of intravenous fluids, oral rehydration solutions, and any other medications. The hospital confirmed that he is being continuously monitored and counselled for treatment in the best interest of his health.

Nitin Dighe, a member of the medical team monitoring Wangchuk prior to his hospitalization, expressed concerns about the lack of communication regarding the reasons for his transfer to Safdarjung Hospital. Dighe stated, “When we learned that Sonam Wangchuk had been shifted to the hospital, we were not informed of the reason. I have been monitoring his health for the past 20 days, and our medical team has also been examining him. However, none of our doctors has been allowed to meet him because an official from the Ministry of Home Affairs is present there.”

He further added, “His wife was allowed to meet him and informed us that his potassium level is low. However, when we conducted tests yesterday around 3 p.m., his potassium level was normal. We have not been provided with the medical report. The hospital doctor has prescribed potassium, and I am taking the medicine there.”

This medication could have been administered at Jantar Mantar itself, so there was no need to hospitalize him. He is otherwise healthy, and he will walk to Parliament himself the day after tomorrow.” Meanwhile, Wangchuk’s wife, Gitanjali J. Angmo, has written a letter to the hospital requesting the completion of discharge formalities at the earliest, so he can be shifted to a medical center of the family’s choice, citing “lack of transparency” in his treatment.

Wangchuk, who had been on a hunger strike for 21 days at Delhi’s Jantar Mantar, was moved to the hospital early on Saturday after his health deteriorated. This action was taken in compliance with directions from the Delhi High Court and on the advice of medical experts. The hunger strike was part of a larger protest movement that has been ongoing at Jantar Mantar since June 6, where activists have been demanding the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over allegations related to the NEET paper leak case.

The NEET (National Eligibility cum Entrance Test) paper leak case has garnered significant media attention and public outrage. The examination is crucial for students aspiring to pursue medical education in India, and any allegations of irregularities can have far-reaching implications for students, educational institutions, and the integrity of the examination process itself. The protests at Jantar Mantar have seen a diverse group of participants, including students, parents, and activists, all united in their demand for accountability and transparency in the education sector.

Wangchuk's involvement in the protest highlights his long-standing commitment to social issues, particularly in the realm of education and environmental sustainability. Known for his innovative approaches to education and community development, Wangchuk has been a prominent figure in advocating for reforms that address both educational inequities and environmental challenges in India. His activism has often focused on the need for systemic change, and his current hunger strike is a reflection of his dedication to these causes.

As the situation continues to evolve, the implications of Wangchuk's health and the ongoing protests remain significant. The refusal to accept medical treatment raises questions about the extent to which activists are willing to go in pursuit of their demands. It also highlights the tension between individual health and the collective struggle for social justice. Wangchuk's case has drawn attention not only to the immediate health concerns but also to the broader issues surrounding the protest, including the role of government accountability and the rights of citizens to voice their dissent.

The response from the government and medical authorities will be closely watched in the coming days. The involvement of the Ministry of Home Affairs in Wangchuk's case raises concerns about the intersection of health care and political oversight. Activists and supporters of Wangchuk have expressed their apprehensions regarding the transparency of his treatment and the motivations behind his hospitalization. The presence of government officials during his medical care has further fueled suspicions about the potential for political interference in his health management.

As Wangchuk's health remains a focal point of public concern, there is a growing call for clarity and communication from the hospital and government officials regarding his medical condition and treatment plan. The situation serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between health, activism, and political engagement, and the need for a supportive environment that allows for both individual well-being and collective action.

In conclusion, the case of Sonam Wangchuk encapsulates the challenges faced by activists in India, particularly in the context of health and political activism. His deteriorating health amid a hunger strike underscores the physical toll that such protests can take on individuals, while also highlighting the broader societal issues at stake. As the protests at Jantar Mantar continue, the fate of Wangchuk and the demands of the protestors will remain intertwined, with implications that extend far beyond the immediate circumstances of his health.