Who Is Gitanjali J. Angmo? Why Sonam Wangchuk's Wife's Statement On His Treatment Is Making Headlines

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On the morning of July 18, 2026, Wangchuk was shifted from Delhi's Jantar Mantar to Safdarjung Hospital after completing 21 days of his indefinite hunger strike, following concerns over his deteriorating health and directions from the Delhi High Court for continuous medical monitoring.

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The move, however, sparked controversy after his wife Gitanjali J. Angmo publicly objected to any medical intervention without the family's approval. Her statement has not only brought the spotlight on the hospital transfer but has also prompted many to ask - Who is Gitanjali J. Angmo?

Gitanjali J. Angmo's Statement In The Spotlight

Following Sonam Wangchuk's hospitalisation, Gitanjali issued a strongly worded statement, saying, "I forbid them from administering anything orally or intravenously without my explicit consent, the consent of our family, and his long-term doctors."

She maintained that no IV fluids, medicines, injections or any other medical treatment should be administered without prior approval from the family. Questioning the authorities' decision, she said there was no medical necessity to move Wangchuk from Jantar Mantar, adding that he appeared well when she met him before the transfer.

Despite his admission to Safdarjung Hospital, Gitanjali confirmed that Wangchuk's indefinite hunger strike would continue and that the planned Parliament march on July 20 would proceed as scheduled.

What Led To Sonam Wangchuk's Hospitalisation?

Sonam Wangchuk began his indefinite hunger strike on June 28, 2026, demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, accountability over alleged examination irregularities and paper leaks, and broader reforms in India's examination system.

Doctors at Safdarjung Hospital have described his condition as stable but medically fragile, attributing his weakness to prolonged fasting and dehydration. The Delhi High Court has directed authorities to ensure continuous monitoring and take necessary medical measures if his condition worsens.

While Delhi Police said the transfer was carried out solely on medical advice and in compliance with court directions, the move has triggered political debate, with supporters and Opposition leaders questioning how the protest was handled.

Who Is Gitanjali J. Angmo?

Gitanjali J. Angmo is an educator, social entrepreneur, institution builder and education reform advocate. She is the Founder, CEO and Dean of the Himalayan Institute of Alternatives, Ladakh (HIAL), an institution dedicated to reimagining higher education for mountain communities.

Although widely recognised as Sonam Wangchuk's wife, Gitanjali has carved out an independent identity through her work in education, sustainability and community development.

Early Life And Educational Background

Born in Balasore, Odisha, into a Punjabi Jain family, Gitanjali pursued a Bachelor's degree in Physics from Fakir Mohan University before earning an MBA in Marketing and Finance from Xavier Institute of Management, Bhubaneswar (XIMB).

She spent nearly six years in the corporate sector before transitioning to entrepreneurship and social impact initiatives.

From Corporate Executive To Social Entrepreneur

Before devoting herself to education, Gitanjali established and contributed to several ventures across healthcare, publishing and social development. These include Pushan, Shanghai Power Projects Ltd., Helios Books, AUM Hospitals, AUM Trust and the Love Your Liver Foundation.

Her work has consistently centred on creating sustainable solutions in education, healthcare and community welfare.

Co-Founding HIAL With Sonam Wangchuk

In 2017, Gitanjali and Sonam Wangchuk co-founded the Himalayan Institute of Alternatives, Ladakh (HIAL). The institute focuses on experiential, context-based learning tailored to the unique needs of Himalayan communities.

As CEO and Dean, she oversees the institution's academic vision while promoting sustainability, entrepreneurship, climate-resilient innovation and community-driven education.

A Leader In Education And Public Policy

Beyond HIAL, Gitanjali has served as an adviser to the Maharashtra International Education Board (MIEB) and previously led a Cambridge-affiliated school in Chennai.

She has also spoken at several national and international forums on educational reform and future-ready learning.

Her contributions were recognised in 2022, when she received the Women Transforming India Award from NITI Aayog for her work in education and community development.

Standing Beside Sonam Wangchuk

Gitanjali has been a key supporter of Wangchuk's public campaigns. During his detention under the National Security Act in 2025-26, she filed a habeas corpus petition before the Supreme Court, wrote to the President and Prime Minister, and publicly raised concerns about being denied communication with her husband.

The couple continues to work together on education reforms, sustainable development and institution building through HIAL.

The Woman Behind A Shared Vision

While the latest developments surrounding Sonam Wangchuk have thrust Gitanjali J. Angmo into the national spotlight, her journey extends far beyond being the spouse of a well-known activist. As an accomplished educator, entrepreneur and institution builder, she has played a pivotal role in reshaping alternative education in Ladakh. Her recent statements on Wangchuk's hospitalisation have once again highlighted her determination to stand by her family's convictions while continuing to advocate for education, community development and social change.