Delhi Police shifts Wangchuk to hospital; activist refuses IV fluids and medication

PTI, July 18, 2026, New Delhi : Activist Sonam Wangchuk, who was taken to Safdarjung Hospital after a 20-day hunger strike, has refused intravenous fluids, oral rehydration solution and other medications despite signs of dehydration and metabolic abnormalities, hospital authorities said on Saturday.

Wangchuk is being continuously monitored and counselled to accept treatment in the interest of his health, they said.

The activist, 59, was brought to the hospital by Delhi Police and admitted at 7.40 am with a history of fasting from solid food for 20 days and generalised weakness.

There is no history of fainting attacks, the hospital said in a health bulletin.

At the time of admission, he was conscious with stable pulse, blood pressure and oxygen saturation. Signs of dehydration were seen, it said.

Blood gas analysis revealed compensated acidosis with decreased serum potassium and a blood sugar level of 78 mg/dl. A repeat serum potassium test showed similar results.

Urinary ketones were 1+ at the time of admission, which had increased to 3+ by 1 pm, it said.

"Although intravenous fluids were advised, the patient has refused all intravenous fluids, oral rehydration fluid or any other medication.

"He is being continuously monitored and counselled for treatment in the best interest of his health," the statement said.

Sources aware of the developments also said that doctors are counselling his family to allow treatment to begin without further delay.