AIIMS docs seek President's inquiry into events at Jantar Mantar, Sonam Wangchuk's hospitalisation

New Delhi: The Resident Doctors' Association of All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Delhi, on Tuesday appealed to President Droupadi Murmu to order an independent, time-bound inquiry into the events at Jantar Mantar a day ago.

The RDA also raised concerns over reports that activist Sonam Wangchuk was not allowed to leave Safdarjung Hospital despite seeking a Leave Against Medical Advice (LAMA), saying that such claims, if accurate, raised questions about patients' autonomy and rights.

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In a representation to President Droupadi Murmu on July 20, the association said, "Reports indicating the use of lathi charge, tear gas, and physical force against a large number of peaceful protesters, including students, doctors and young citizens, are deeply unsettling."

"While certain aspects of the incident remain contested, videos and eyewitness accounts available in the public domain have raised serious questions regarding the manner in which peaceful democratic dissent was handled," it said.

The RDA also flagged videos purportedly showing police personnel with their faces and name badges covered.

"Particularly concerning are videos that appear to show police personnel with their faces and name badges covered, undermining transparency and accountability in law enforcement," the letter said.

Referring to Wangchuk's continued hospitalisation, the association said, "Reports suggesting that he was not permitted to leave the hospital despite expressing a desire to seek leave against medical advice, if accurate, raise important questions regarding the autonomy and rights of patients."

"The principle of informed consent and a competent patient's right to refuse or discontinue treatment are fundamental ethical and legal principles of medical practice. Any departure from these principles should be subject to due legal process and transparent justification," it said.

The association requested the President to "ensure that an independent, impartial, and time-bound inquiry is conducted into the events that transpired at Jantar Mantar", investigate allegations of excessive use of force by law enforcement personnel, protect citizens' constitutional rights to peaceful protest and free expression, and seek clarification regarding the circumstances surrounding Wangchuk's continued hospitalisation.

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Calling itself an apolitical association, the RDA said, "We believe every individual has the democratic right to peaceful protest, and we hope that all genuine concerns are heard and addressed through constructive dialogue."

"We place our faith in Your Excellency's constitutional office to safeguard the rights and liberties of all citizens and to ensure that the rule of law prevails," the letter said.