‘Patients’ Rights Must Be Protected’: AIIMS Doctors Seek President Murmu’s Intervention Over Sonam Wangchuk’s Hospitalisation

A fresh controversy has emerged over the hospitalisation of climate activist Sonam Wangchuk, with resident doctors from All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi, appealing to President Droupadi Murmu for intervention.

In a detailed representation, the Resident Doctors’ Association (RDA) of AIIMS Delhi sought an independent, impartial and time-bound inquiry into the events surrounding Wangchuk’s protest at Jantar Mantar and his subsequent admission to Safdarjung Hospital.

The doctors said the issue extends beyond one individual, touching upon the broader principles of patient rights, medical ethics, constitutional freedoms and the independence of public healthcare institutions.

Doctors Raise Questions Over Patient Autonomy

The AIIMS doctors expressed concern over reports claiming that Sonam Wangchuk was allegedly not permitted to leave Safdarjung Hospital despite reportedly seeking Leave Against Medical Advice (LAMA).

According to the association, if these reports are accurate, they raise serious ethical and legal questions regarding a competent patient’s right to make decisions about their own treatment.

The letter stressed that informed consent and a patient’s right to refuse or discontinue medical care are fundamental principles of modern medical practice and should only be restricted through transparent legal procedures.

Call for Independent Inquiry Into Protest Handling

Apart from concerns related to Wangchuk’s hospitalisation, the doctors also questioned the handling of the protest held at Jantar Mantar.

The association cited reports, videos and eyewitness accounts alleging the use of lathi-charge, tear gas and physical force against peaceful protesters, including students and members of the medical community.

According to the RDA, such incidents warrant an impartial investigation to ensure accountability and uphold democratic values.

The doctors also highlighted videos that allegedly showed some police personnel with their faces and name badges covered, stating that such actions could undermine transparency in law enforcement.

Safdarjung Doctors Echo Similar Concerns

The Resident Doctors’ Association of Safdarjung Hospital and Vardhman Mahavir Medical College (VMMC) separately wrote to the President, raising similar concerns over the events.

The association emphasised that every individual admitted to a hospital must be treated primarily as a patient, with dignity, compassion and complete adherence to medical ethics.

It warned that any restrictions on a patient’s liberty must remain lawful, proportionate and transparent while ensuring that the independence of healthcare professionals is never compromised.

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Security Presence Inside Hospital Questioned

The doctors also referred to reports and widely circulated visuals showing heavy security deployment inside Safdarjung Hospital during Wangchuk’s stay.

According to the association, restricted access to parts of the hospital and disruptions to routine medical services created concerns about the functioning of public healthcare institutions.

The letter cautioned against any perception that government hospitals were being used for purposes beyond healthcare, stating that hospitals must remain dedicated solely to patient care.

It further noted that while security arrangements may sometimes be necessary, they should never interfere with medical services, patient access or doctors’ professional independence.

Doctors Appeal to President Murmu

The associations have requested President Droupadi Murmu to ensure an independent inquiry into the recent developments, safeguard the rights of competent patients and reinforce the autonomy of public healthcare institutions.

They also urged authorities to ensure that government hospitals continue functioning without external pressures that could affect patient care or medical decision-making.

Background of Wangchuk’s Protest

Sonam Wangchuk has been on a hunger strike since early July, demanding greater accountability in India’s education system. His protest includes a call for the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan following allegations surrounding competitive examination paper leaks, including the NEET examination, whose results were cancelled earlier this year.

Wangchuk was admitted to Safdarjung Hospital on July 18 following action taken by the police after directions linked to proceedings before the Delhi High Court.

As the debate over patient rights and institutional independence continues, the doctors’ appeal has added a new dimension to an already high-profile public issue.