Jantar Mantar Updates | Delhi High Court Allows Sonam Wangchuk’s Shift to Medanta Hospital; CJP Removes Spokesperson Vijeta Dahiya Amid Controversy

New Delhi- In a significant development related to the ongoing Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) protests at Jantar Mantar, the Delhi High Court on Tuesday directed the immediate transfer of climate activist and educationist Sonam Wangchuk from Safdarjung Hospital to Medanta Hospital in Gurugram, a facility of his choice. Separately, CJP announced the removal of its spokesperson Vijeta Dahiya following criticism over his conduct during the protests. Meanwhile, support continued to pour in for protestors from all quarters. The Division Bench comprising Chief Justice Devendra Kumar Upadhyaya and Justice Tejas Karia heard an appeal filed by Wangchuk’s wife, Dr. Gitanjali Angmo, challenging a single-judge order that had earlier declined interim relief for his transfer.

The court, after reviewing medical reports from Safdarjung Hospital, AIIMS, and interacting with doctors present, noted a consensus on the need for constant monitoring due to Wangchuk’s prolonged hunger strike (24th day). Key observations from doctors included low potassium levels, pancytopenia (low hemoglobin, leukocytes, and platelets), and other parameters warranting close supervision, though his vitals were described as stable in some updates.

The bench stated: “After going through these reports... there is a consensus that constant monitoring is needed. We propose to shift him to Medanta, the hospital of his choice.” It directed the formation of a team of expert doctors at Medanta for continuous monitoring and administration of necessary medication as per medical norms. All medical records from Safdarjung Hospital were to be immediately transferred.

Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, appearing for the Centre, stated there was no objection to the shift but emphasized that Wangchuk should not be discharged against medical advice. The court passed the formal order post-lunch, prioritizing Wangchuk’s right to choose his treatment while safeguarding his health.

This came after Wangchuk was removed from the Jantar Mantar protest site on July 18 by Delhi Police on medical grounds amid concerns over his deteriorating health, leading to allegations of detention by his family. A prior single-judge hearing on July 20 had not granted the transfer.

Dr. Gitanjali Angmo welcomed the order, highlighting the right to choose one’s hospital and expressing concerns over the initial handling at Safdarjung.

CJP Sacks Spokesperson Vijeta Dahiya

In a separate development today, CJP issued a statement removing Vijeta Dahiya as spokesperson and relieving him of all official duties. The party strongly condemned his actions, describing videos of his conduct during the protests (including reports of him being away from the site amid police action on protesters) as “deeply insensitive,” showing a “complete lack of judgment,” and inconsistent with the movement’s values.

The decision follows viral criticism and videos that surfaced, with some accusing him of lacking support for protesters on the ground. CJP emphasized accountability and alignment with the principles of the youth-led movement demanding education reforms.

Meanwhile, NCP SP Chief & Senior MP Sharad Pawar visited Jantar Mantar to check on the protestors after yesterday’s brutal violence by Delhi Police.

Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut & Arvind Sawant, also visited Jantar Mantar today to support students protesting exam scams & police brutality. He warned: “The fire lit at Jantar Mantar will not be extinguished. We’ll join hunger strike if needed.”

The CJP-led protests, demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over exam paper leaks, compensation for affected students, and accountability, continued into a second day after Monday’s clashes during the ‘Chalo Sansad’ march. Protesters faced lathi charges and tear gas, with injuries reported on both sides. The site saw renewed gatherings and rebuilding efforts despite police action.