Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut on Friday questioned whether reports about climate activist Sonam Wangchuk's deteriorating health were reaching the country's top constitutional authorities, as the activist's indefinite hunger strike entered its third week.
Speaking to reporters in Nagpur, Raut expressed concern over Wangchuk's worsening condition and criticised the Union government for what he described as an "insensitive" approach towards the ongoing protest. He asked whether information regarding Wangchuk's health was reaching Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah and President Droupadi Murmu. He also urged the High Court to take suo motu cognisance of the matter.
"Are reports of Sonam Wangchuk's health not reaching the Prime Minister, the Home Minister and the President?" Raut asked, alleging that the government's silence despite repeated medical updates raised serious concerns. He said that when a public figure's health deteriorates during a democratic protest, it becomes the responsibility of the authorities to respond with sensitivity and initiate dialogue.
Raut's remarks come amid growing concern over Wangchuk's health. The climate activist has been on an indefinite hunger strike at Delhi's Jantar Mantar, demanding action on issues related to the education sector and accountability in public examinations. According to recent reports, the Union Health Ministry has placed three central government hospitals in Delhi on alert and directed that Wangchuk and other fasting protesters undergo medical examinations twice a day due to fears of sudden organ failure from prolonged fasting.
The issue has also drawn reactions from several opposition leaders. Congress leaders Pawan Khera and Jairam Ramesh have earlier accused the Centre of failing to engage with the protesters, while civil society groups and legal bodies have appealed for immediate intervention and dialogue. The opposition has argued that the government should open channels of communication instead of remaining silent as Wangchuk's health continues to decline.
The Union government has not issued an official response to Raut's remarks at the time of reporting. However, with Wangchuk's fast entering a critical stage, political pressure on the Centre continues to mount, and the issue is expected to feature prominently during the upcoming Monsoon Session of Parliament.
