Sonam Wangchuk Taken to AIIMS After Health Deteriorates in Jail

Jodhpur: Activist and scientist Sonam Wangchuk, who is currently held at Jodhpur Central Jail under the National Security Act, was taken to AIIMS Jodhpur on Saturday morning after his health reportedly worsened. Police officials confirmed that he was transported to the hospital under heightened security arrangements for a medical assessment.

Wangchuk was escorted to the hospital around 6:30 am and entered through a rear gate to avoid public attention. He underwent medical evaluation and was returned to the jail later the same morning.

Hospital Visit Under Tight Security

According to police sources, Wangchuk was first examined at the Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation department before being shifted to the outpatient section for further checks. His stay at the hospital lasted close to 90 minutes. This was not his first visit in recent days, as he had also been brought to AIIMS Jodhpur for a medical examination on Friday.

Hospital officials indicated that his condition required monitoring but did not disclose specific treatment details. After completing the examinations, the police escort took him back to Jodhpur Central Jail.

Ongoing Health Complaints

Medical sources at AIIMS stated that Wangchuk has been experiencing stomach-related discomfort along with pain in various parts of his body. These symptoms have reportedly persisted for several weeks. While no official diagnosis has been made public, concerns have been raised about the possible impact of jail conditions on his health.

There is growing suspicion that the quality of drinking water supplied within the jail premises may be contributing to his physical problems. However, jail authorities have not confirmed these claims.

Specialist Consultation and Medical Decisions

Initially, there were discussions about involving specialists from the Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation department. Ultimately, Wangchuk was examined by a gastroenterologist in the emergency department. Following this consultation, doctors allowed him to be taken back into custody.

Officials have maintained that medical protocols are being followed and that Wangchuk is receiving appropriate attention whenever required. No recommendation for hospital admission was issued during his latest visit.

Supreme Court Petition by Family

Amid these developments, Wangchuk’s wife, Geetanjali Angmo, has approached the Supreme Court seeking immediate medical relief for her husband. In her petition, she highlighted that he has been suffering from continuous stomach pain, which she attributed to the quality of drinking water provided in jail.

The plea further alleged that specialist doctors have not been visiting the jail regularly for his examination. Angmo requested that the court allow weekly medical check-ups by specialists and permit family members to supply clean drinking water to ensure his well-being.

Court’s Direction to Jail Authorities

After reviewing the application, the Supreme Court directed the jail administration to arrange an examination by a specialist doctor from a government hospital. The court also instructed that a detailed medical report be submitted in a sealed cover by February 2.

The order reflects the court’s intent to independently assess Wangchuk’s health condition and ensure that necessary medical standards are being upheld during his detention.

Legal Proceedings and Custody Status

In a post shared on social media, Angmo stated that multiple court hearings held earlier this month focused on alleged procedural flaws in the detention order. She mentioned that the opposing side is scheduled to present its arguments on February 2.

Jail authorities, meanwhile, have stated that Wangchuk has been examined 21 times by in-house medical staff since his incarceration. He has been lodged at Jodhpur Central Jail since September 26 last year in connection with a case related to violence in Leh, Ladakh.

As legal proceedings continue, Wangchuk’s health condition remains under close observation, with both the judiciary and medical authorities involved in reviewing his care.