'Efforts Of State Govt Will Fruit Only When Public Cooperates': Allahabad High Court On Violation Of Covid-19 Protocol

The Allahabad High Court on Thursday observed that even though the Uttar Pradesh Government has taken satisfactory steps to enhance medical infrastructure in the state and subdue the pandemic, its efforts will not show result unless the public adheres to the Covid-19 protocol.

"Efforts of State Govt will fruit only when public cooperates and abides by Covid-19 protocol," a Bench of ACJ Sanjay Yadav and Justice Prakash Padia remarked while hearing its suo moto case pertaining to Covid-19 management in UP. 

The observation was made as the Bench noted several media reports regarding overcrowding in tourist places, especially hill stations.

"Invariably, people are not following Covid-19 protocol, as seen in news reports. There is massive overcrowding in hill stations, although outside the territory of Uttar Pradesh. People are required to respond to State Govt's call and remain cautious," the Bench further observed.

In its previous order, the High Court had sought information in respect of State Government's plan to meet future challenges of the pandemic, as also the steps taken to upgrade the Primary Health Centres and Community Health Centres.

AAG Manish Goyal today informed the Court that a host of measures have already been undertaken by the government.

"Testing labs have been increased, which is the highest in the country. Effective surveillance and contact tracing are being done. 72,000 surveillance teams have been constituted", he specified.

The Court was further informed that 16,000 beds have been reserved for Covid-19 patients, Ventilator beds have been provided in 75 districts. Furthermore, the number of ambulances available in the State is almost "double the standard" prescribed by the World Health Organization.

Thus, recording satisfaction on the steps so taken, the Bench adjourned the matter directing Petitioners and intervenors to file their response.

Vaccination

An intervenor had urged the High Court to prioritise vaccination for agricultural workers who remain a vulnerable category. He stated that though vaccines are now available en masse, the procedure for getting a single jab of vaccine is still very time-consuming.

However, highlighting the immense population of the country, the Court observed,

"Given the ratio of population, it cannot be given to everyone overnight. It's an ongoing process. We don't want to interfere".

Case Title: In-Re Inhuman Condition At Quarantine Centres And For Providing Better Treatment To Corona Positive

Inputs by Aaratrika Bhaumik