A letter has been addressed to Chief Justice Sanjay Karol of Patna High Court by Saurav Narayan, an LL.B Student at Law centre 1, Faculty of Law, University of Delhi, expressing lament over the decision of administrative Authority in Vaishali District, Bihar, regarding closing down essential services including health facilities and medical establishments in the Containment Zone.
"This act is violative of Article 21 which guarantees protection of life and personal liberty and states, “No person shall be deprived of his life or personal liberty except according to procedure established by law.”
The letter stated further that the order appears to be in discrepancy and violation of the guidelines of expressly issued by MHA vide notification dated 29.07.2020 for unlock 3 permitting medical and essential services in the containment zones and the similar order of Home Deptt, Govt. of Bihar continuing the medical establishments to remain functional in containment zones.
"Although, Govt. of Bihar follows the statement – “The First Wealth is Health” but the local administration seemingly does not reflect this in their actions".
The management of hospitals for essential services is in very sorry state of affairs particularly in Bihar where one Allopathic Doctor serves 43,788 people as compared to ideal one doctor for 1000 people (WHO report).
"....it is shocking and outrageous that the administration issues such a guideline closing down shops dealing in essential services, including medical shops, in containment zones. Who would be responsible if any person dies due to absence or lack of medication, is a question which the concerned administration must answer."
It is thus humbly pleaded, requested and prayed that the orders be taken back and medical establishments with proper and increased care be made available to the citizens for mere living has become a privilege in these testing times.
Read Letter Here:
Picture Source :