COVID In Orphanages & Jails- Test Maximum Number Of Children & Ensure Health Of Jail Inmates Isn't Jeopardized: Tripura High Court To Govt

The Bench of Chief Justice Akil Kureshi and Justice S. Talapatra further directed the State Government to ensure that the health of inmates is not jeopardized on account of being kept confined.

The Court has also asked the state government to file an affidavit stating what is the current requirement of oxygen per day of the State of Tripura.

Court's observations

While taking note of the details provided by the State administration in its affidavit, the Court touched on the issue of the high infection cases in State-run orphanages and jails.

The Court remarked,

"The young children who are housed in these orphanages, need special protection. The State-administration would ensure maximum possible testing of these children, particularly considering the fact that in recent times number of positive cases reported in these orphanages is quite high."

Regarding the status of jails, the Court said,

"So far as jail inmates are concerned, the State which has restricted the movement of a citizen, of course by authority of law, has the onus to ensure that his health is not jeopardized on account of being kept confined. We are sure the State-administration shall take into account all the observations and directives of the committee specially constituted by the Supreme Court by its order dated 23rd March, 2020."

Lastly, the Court brought it to the notice of the State administration as to the requirement of round the clock helpline which is efficient, functional and provides all necessary information and support to the relatives of the patients who are in need.

In particular, the Court asked the State to think of devising a system by which the availability of hospital beds with and without oxygen supply and ventilators is constantly made available in the public domain.

"This will help the relatives of the Covid patients who require urgent hospitalization and oxygen support to identify the proper place without loss of time," added the Court.

Lastly, the Court asked the Advocate General to take up the issue with the State-administration and devise a plan as found appropriate.

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