21-Year-Old Injured in Jantar Mantar Protest Crackdown Recovering at RML Hospital

A 21-year-old woman who was critically injured during a police crackdown on student protesters at Jantar Mantar in Delhi on July 20 is showing significant signs of recovery at Dr Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital, according to a medical bulletin released on July 27.

The patient, Sakshi, was brought unconscious to the emergency department at Dr Ram Manohar Lohia (RML) Hospital after suffering asphyxia during a stampede-like situation. The stampede broke out when teargas shells were fired and protesters began running. Sakshi sustained injuries to her face, chest, neck, and limbs during the chaos.

Initially admitted in critical condition, Sakshi required intensive care unit treatment and mechanical ventilation. A hospital update issued on July 22 noted that MRI scans of her brain and spine showed no major neurological injury despite the severity of the trauma, and her condition began improving under a multidisciplinary medical team.

The latest health bulletin, issued on July 27 at 9:00 AM, confirmed that Sakshi was successfully taken off ventilatory support nearly five days prior and is maintaining adequate spontaneous breathing on her own. Hospital officials reported that she is conscious, alert, and responding appropriately to commands.

Medical staff also initiated oral feeds for Sakshi over the past 72 hours, which she has been tolerating well. Her clinical condition is presently stable, though she remains under close observation by specialists to ensure her continued recovery. Doctors have not yet indicated a likely discharge date, noting that her progress will be assessed through regular monitoring over the coming days.

Sakshi is currently pursuing an Advanced Diploma in Computer Applications. According to her brother, Manish, she had originally travelled to Delhi for sightseeing before the incident occurred.