Plea Against Kerala COVID Lockdown Relaxations For Bakrid: Supreme Court Asks Govt To File It's Response By End Of The Day

Supreme Court on Monday asked the Kerala Government to file its response by the end of the day to the plea challenging the Kerala Government's decision to relax, for three days, Covid-19 induced lockdown restrictions in view upcoming Bakrid festival.

The Bench headed by Justice RF Nariman has directed the registry to list the matter as first item tomorrow 

"It is shocking that in a medical emergency, the government is playing with the lives of citizens through such measures… Government of Kerala is ready to sacrifice the health and life of innocent citizens during this critical situation," the application filed on behalf of PKD Nambiar through Advocate Preeti Singh states at the outset.

The application has been moved in the Supreme Court's suo moto case raising concerns over proposed Kanwar Yatra in the State of UP.

Whereas in the said case the Supreme Court had expressed reservation over permitting the Kanwar rituals considering threat to Covid-protocols, the application highlights that the Kerala Government is acting casually by relaxing lockdown restrictions for Bakrid festival from July 18 till July 20.

The plea alleges that the impugned decision has been taken without any consultation from the medical department. Rather, the decision is taken in view of discussions between CM Pinarayi Vijayan and leaders of the traders body 'Kerala Vyapari Vyavasaay E-Kopana Samiti'.

"The political interest and cause cannot overcome the fundamental rights of the citizens of this nation. The said act of the Government of Kerala is noting but politically motivated, moreover the said decision is totally contrary to the observation and the spirit qua which this Hon'ble Court has shown it's concern over the presents pitiable situation of this Nation," states the application.

It is also pointed out that the impugned decision was taken by the Kerala Government merely a day after the Prime Minister called for caution due to "increasing numbers (of Covid positive cases) in Kerala and Maharashtra".

IN RE: ALARMING NEWSPAPER REPORT REGARDING KANWAR YATRA IN STATE OF U.P 

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