Delhi High Court has directed the Delhi Government to establish dedicated helpline numbers for the senior citizens to assist them during the pandemic outbreak of COVID-19.
The bench consisting Justice Hima Kohli and Justice S. Prasad directed Government to to creat a dedicated helpline for senior citizens. Courts direction came while it was hearing a PIL filed by a 61-year-old Senior Advocate Ajit Kumar seeking directions to help elderly citizens like him during the COVID-19 Coronavirus lockdown. The plea sought directions for the government and police to make arrangements for banking, health, groceries, and other necessary things to senior citizens at a call and allotment of hospital for medical emergency situation.
Additional Solicitor General Anuj Aggarwal appearing for Delhi Government submitted that authorities are already working at all levels to contain spread of COVID-19. He also submitted that, all the requests from senior citizens are being heard at helpline number- 1291 and are being worked upon by Delhi Police.
Mr. Ajit submitted before the Court that senior citizens may be relocated to areas declared as green zones to protect them from COVID-19.
Mr Anuj however, contended that moving senior citizens without them showing any symptom may posses a greater risk as it will result in mass relocation and may cause panic among seniors.
The High Court has disposed of the plea directing the government to create a dedicated helpline for the Senior Citizens.
-India Legal Bureau