The Chhattisgarh High Court has taken suo motu cognizance of a public interest litigation (PIL) based on news reports published on January 9, 2025 highlighting the deplorable condition of Madku Dweep, a major tourist destination in Chhattisgarh, which is lacking basic facilities due to administrative apathy.
Madku Dweep, an island located in Mungeli District, is a place of great natural beauty and historical significance, with ruins of ancient temples, epigraphs, coins, and pottery.
However, despite its potential, the island is struggling with basic infrastructure, including toilets, drinking water facilities, and roads.
The reports stated that three toilets built by the government are lying unused due to being locked, and tourists, especially women, are facing difficulties due to the lack of toilet facilities.
The court has directed the Collector of Mungeli to file a personal affidavit regarding the news reports and the condition of Madku Dweep.
The Secretary of Tourism and Culture, Government of Chhattisgarh, has also been directed to file an affidavit regarding the funds allocated for the maintenance and beautification of tourist places in the state, including Madku Dweep.
The court’s order comes after the Additional Advocate General appearing for the state expressed lament over the situation and stated that funds allocated for the beautification of Madku Dweep in 2006 and 2013 had been wasted without completing the work.
The Division Bench of Chief Justice Ramesh Sinha and Justice Ravindra Kumar Agrawal has listed the matter for further hearing on January 28, 2025.