'There Should Be Awareness' : SC On Plea For Protection Of North East People From COVID-19 Stigma

The Supreme Court on Friday disposed of a plea highlighting hardships faced by people from the North-Eastern parts of the country after the Government assured that they would 'take care' of the situation.

Appearing for the petitioner, Senior Advocate Colin Gonsalves apprised the Bench, comprising of Justices Ashok Bhushan, SK Kaul and BR Gavai, of the adversities being faced by people from the North-East during the lockdown. The most worrisome issue being that a number of them were asked to vacate their rooms and consequently have nowhere to go.

Taking note of the submissions made in the plea, Justice Bhushan highlighted the grievance and stated that "the petition says North-Eastern people are facing difficulties as others mistook them to be Chinese."

Appearing for the Government, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta informed the Bench that there were Helplines in place specifically to redress such grievances. "All those Helplines are dead", Gonsalves responded promptly.

"There should be awareness. When people are locked in, there are difficulties that arise. However, something needs to be done", remarked Justice Kaul, suggesting that the lockdown is necessary, but it comes with certain difficulties. However, it is important to spread more awareness amongst people so they do not mistreat anyone, the Bench seemed to suggest.

The Solicitor went on to assure the Bench that the Government would look into the issue and take care. With this assurance, the Bench deemed it appropriate to not interfere and disposed of the matter.

"The SG assures us to take care of all points mentioned in the petition. We dispose of the petition", concluded Justice Bhushan.