'Force feed Sonam Wangchuk': Plea in Delhi HC seeks liquid diet, hospitalisation for climate activist on hunger strike

Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk is on a hunger strike in Ladakh, protesting against industrialization in the ecologically sensitive region. A plea filed in the Delhi High Court now seeks urgent intervention, requesting the court to direct authorities to provide Wangchuk with a liquid diet and hospitalize him.

The petition, filed by advocate Rakesh Kumar Saini, argues that Wangchuk's health is deteriorating rapidly due to the hunger strike. It implores the central government and the Delhi government to immediately shift the activist to a government hospital for necessary medical care. Wangchuk, an engineer and education reformist, has been a prominent voice for the protection of the Himalayas.

Wangchuk, who inspired the character of Phunsukh Wangdu in the Bollywood movie "3 Idiots," has been advocating for greater autonomy and environmental protection for Ladakh. His hunger strike is part of his ongoing efforts to draw attention to the potential environmental damage caused by proposed industrial projects in the region. He has previously warned that the fragile ecosystem of Ladakh could be irreversibly harmed if industrial activities are not curbed.