Delhi High Court Orders Immediate Construction, Repair Of District Courts Washrooms; Calls For Uniform Standard Of Hygiene

The Delhi High Court has directed immediate construction and repair work of washrooms in the district courts.

Justice Sanjeev Narula said that the direction shall apply to male, female and handicapped washrooms in the District Courts to ensure a uniform standard of hygiene and functionality.

The Court directed Delhi Government's PWD to forthwith commence construction and repair work for the washrooms where tenders have already been awarded.

“For locations where tenders are pending, the process shall be expedited and brought to completion at the earliest. This work shall commence immediately upon the relaxation of the GRAP-IV regulating restrictions,” the Court said.

It further directed the Chief Engineers of PWD for each court complex to coordinate closely with the respective Principal District and Sessions Judges to ensure that an uninterrupted supply of water is provided to all washrooms.

“Particular attention shall be given to addressing the water supply issues identified at Saket Courts,” the Court said.

Justice Narula was dealing with a plea filed by a woman lawyer highlighting the unhygienic conditions of female washrooms in the Lawyers' Chambers Block at Saket Courts.

In October, the Court had appointed a lady lawyer as the Court Commissioner to conduct a comprehensive assessment of the conditions of female washrooms across all District Courts in the national capital.

Justice Narula observed that the negligence displayed in maintaining facilities in the washrooms cannot be overlooked. The lack of hygiene products, poor maintenance, and infrastructural inadequacies demand immediate action, the judge said.

The Court directed the Principal District and Sessions Judges of all District Courts to review the report submitted by the Court Commissioner, identify remedial measures and ensure implementation.

“The Bar Associations of all District Courts shall also examine the report submitted by the Court Commissioner and ensure the upkeep and maintenance of washrooms within the Lawyers' Chambers Blocks and submit a compliance report,” the Court said.

The matter will now be heard on February 10.

Title: SMITA KUMARI RAJGARHIA v. GOVT. OF NCT OF DELHI

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