NEW DELHI: The doctors have found that activist Sonam Wangchuk, who was admitted to Safdarjung Hospital after 20 days of prolonged fasting, is suffering from dehydration, low potassium levels and rising ketone levels.According to doctors, these conditions may pose a risk to kidney function and lead to other metabolic complications. He is under close medical observation, and the hospital authorities are continuously counselling the family to allow treatment to begin without further delay, sources said. According to the Health Bulletin released Safdarjung Hospital, Wangchuk (59) was admitted to Safdarjung Hospital at 7:40 am on Saturday after being brought by Delhi Police. He was admitted with a history of fasting for 20 days from solid food and generalised weakness. There is no history of fainting attacks. “At the time of admission, he was conscious with a stable pulse, blood pressure and oxygen saturation. Signs of dehydration were seen. Blood gas analysis revealed compensated acidosis with decreased serum potassium and blood sugar of 78 mg/dl. Repeat Serum Potassium was similar. Urinary ketones were 1+ at the time of admission, which increased to 3+ by 1:00 pm,” the Health Bulletin 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,” it added.Wangchuk had been on an indefinite hunger strike for 20 consecutive days, demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over alleged nationwide examination irregularities, including the NEET paper leak controversy.Earlier on Saturday, Delhi Police shifted Wangchuk from the Jantar Mantar protest site to Safdarjung Hospital, citing his deteriorating health, medical advice and directions issued by the Delhi High Court. Police said the operation was carried out with maximum restraint.Meanwhile, the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) continued its protest at Jantar Mantar and has called for a march to Parliament on the opening day of the Monsoon Session on Monday. However, sources said the organisation is yet to approach Delhi Police for the mandatory permission.Sources added that even if the CJP applies now, permission is unlikely to be granted due to the stringent security arrangements in place for the Monsoon Session.Delhi Police has also imposed prohibitory orders under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), formerly Section 144 of the CrPC, across the New Delhi district, particularly around Parliament House and India Gate, during the session. The order bans gatherings of four or more people, unauthorised rallies, and carrying weapons. Restrictions are being strictly applied to prevent protests and ensure the smooth movement of lawmakers. Student groups and political workers attempting to march to Parliament without permission will face immediate detention or dispersal.(With ANI inputs)
