As activist Sonam Wangchuk’s hunger strike at Jantar Mantar in Delhi enters day 20, doctors have warned that his health condition is in a critical stage as his glucose reserves have exhausted and the next stage could impact his organs.
Wangchuk is on a hunger strike as part of Cockroach Janata Party’s campaign calling for the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over irregularities in competitive examinations.
Latest medical bulletin issued by Dr Satish Lamba said Wangchuk has lost more than nine kg since beginning his hunger strike on June 28. He now weighs 56.9 kg. Dr Lamba said Wangchuk’s glucose reserves are exhausted, and his body is now consuming fat.
“After that, muscles begin to get consumed. His ketone level had reached 3-plus and, after improving hydration, it has come down to 2-plus. His uric acid is high, which indicates that muscles are being consumed," he said, warning that the next stage could be alarming as it could impact the organs.
"I urge the government to intervene as soon as possible because he is a precious gem and we do not want to lose him. If organs get impacted, it can be really alarming for us," Lamba said.
Wangchuk is now being monitored by authorities after the matter reached the Delhi High Court, which was hearing a PIL raising concern over his health. The HC also extended medical aid if his condition deteriorates. Solicitor General (SG) Tushar Mehta, who appeared for the Centre as well as the Delhi government, submitted that life of every individual was precious and there was no objection to undertaking Wangchuk's regular medical checkup.
Meanwhile, his strike has garnered the attention of celebrities, including Aamir Khan, who said his work was commendable.
"Whatever he's doing is commendable. We don't need a '3 Idiots' character to respect his work. We are all deeply concerned about his health and well-being. We sincerely hope and pray that he ends his fast as soon as possible and takes care of his health," said Khan, while denying that his character in ‘3 idiots’ was based on Wangchuk.
TMC chief Mamata Banerjee and AAP national convenor Arvind Kejriwal too extended support for Wangchuk. Kejriwal met the activist at Jantar Mantar and expressed solidarity with his protest.
