New Delhi: Resident doctors from the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi, and Vardhman Mahavir Medical College (VMMC) & Safdarjung Hospital have appealed to President Droupadi Murmu, seeking immediate intervention regarding the continued hospitalisation of climate activist Sonam Wangchuk. The doctors have expressed serious concerns over patient autonomy, medical ethics, and the role of hospitals in safeguarding constitutional rights.
Doctors Raise Questions on Patient Autonomy
In separate letters addressed to the President, the Resident Doctors' Associations (RDAs) of AIIMS New Delhi and VMMC & Safdarjung Hospital highlighted reports that Wangchuk, despite being a mentally competent patient, was allegedly not permitted to leave the hospital under Leave Against Medical Advice (LAMA).
The doctors stated that if these reports are accurate, they raise significant ethical and legal concerns regarding informed consent, patient autonomy, personal liberty, and the constitutional rights of individuals receiving medical care.
According to the resident doctors, every competent patient has the right to make informed decisions regarding their treatment, including the option to discontinue medical care after being informed of the associated risks.
"Hospitals Are Institutions of Healing, Not Places of Detention"
One of the central themes of the doctors' appeal was the importance of maintaining hospitals as independent healthcare institutions dedicated solely to patient welfare.
The letter emphasized that hospitals should never be perceived as places of detention or instruments of administrative control. It stated that restrictions on the liberty of a competent patient should only be imposed when legally authorised, supported by due process, and carried out in a transparent and proportionate manner.
The resident doctors cautioned that any perception of hospitals being used for purposes beyond healthcare could undermine public trust in medical institutions.
Concerns Over Security Measures at Safdarjung Hospital
The Resident Doctors' Associations also expressed concern over reports of extensive security arrangements within Safdarjung Hospital during Wangchuk's hospitalisation.
According to the letters, reports suggested heavy police deployment, restricted access to certain areas of the hospital, and sealing of multiple floors. The doctors noted that such measures could disrupt routine hospital operations and potentially affect patient care and accessibility for those seeking medical treatment.
They stressed that healthcare services should continue without interference and that hospitals must remain safe and accessible environments for all patients.
Demand for an Independent and Time-Bound Inquiry
The resident doctors have called for an independent, impartial, and time-bound inquiry into the circumstances surrounding Wangchuk's hospitalisation.
Their appeal seeks a thorough examination of:
The circumstances related to his continued hospitalisation.
The reported restrictions on his ability to seek Leave Against Medical Advice (LAMA).
The security arrangements implemented inside Safdarjung Hospital.
The reported police actions during demonstrations at Jantar Mantar.
The doctors believe that an independent investigation would help ensure transparency, accountability, and adherence to constitutional and medical ethics.
Concerns Over Protest-Related Incidents
Apart from issues related to the hospitalisation, the doctors also expressed concern over reports of police action during protests linked to the incident.
The letters referred to reports of alleged lathi-charge, use of tear gas, and incidents in which doctors providing emergency medical care were reportedly assaulted. Concerns were also raised regarding the alleged intimidation of faculty members and students from Lady Hardinge Medical College.
According to the resident doctors, any action that interferes with the ability of healthcare professionals to provide medical care can have serious implications for public confidence in the healthcare system.
Protecting the Independence of Healthcare Institutions
The doctors reiterated that hospitals and medical institutions must remain independent of political or administrative influence while continuing to uphold the highest standards of medical ethics.
They emphasized that healthcare professionals should be able to discharge their duties without fear, pressure, or external interference. Protecting the professional autonomy of doctors, they said, is essential for ensuring quality patient care and maintaining confidence in public healthcare institutions.
Warning Against Erosion of Public Trust
The Resident Doctors' Associations warned that any perceived compromise of patient rights or institutional independence could weaken public trust in the country's healthcare system.
They stressed that transparency, accountability, respect for constitutional safeguards, and adherence to medical ethics are fundamental to preserving the credibility of hospitals and ensuring confidence among patients, doctors, and the wider public.
Delhi High Court Orders Transfer to Medanta Hospital
Amid the ongoing developments, the Delhi High Court reportedly directed that Sonam Wangchuk be shifted to Medanta Hospital for further medical care. The court also instructed that his medical records and health reports be shared with the treating specialists to ensure continuity of treatment.
Conclusion
The appeal by resident doctors from AIIMS New Delhi and VMMC & Safdarjung Hospital has brought renewed attention to the importance of patient autonomy, informed consent, and the independence of healthcare institutions. While the matter continues to attract public and legal attention, the doctors have emphasized that hospitals must remain dedicated to patient welfare, uphold medical ethics, and protect the constitutional rights of every individual receiving healthcare.
As the situation evolves, the outcome of the requested inquiry and subsequent legal proceedings will be closely watched by the medical community and the public alike.
