The Kerala High Court on Tuesday has directed the District Administration and Police to ensure transportation of patients to nearby hospitals due to non-operation of auto rickshaws and taxis in the state.
A Public Interest Litigation was filed by Renjish M.V seeking steps to be taken by the State Government for granting permission for the operation of auto rickshaws, to control private vehicles and also to ensure that the persons who are in urgent need of medical requirement are transported to the hospitals by the authorities.
The Counsel appearing for the petitioner submitted that the Central Government Advisory has not put any restriction on the operation of auto rickshaws and taxies but the advisory issued by the State Government does not permit the operation of auto rickshaws and taxies in the State, thus causing serious prejudice to the people, especially those patients requiring urgent medical treatment.
Acting upon the PIL, the division bench comprising of Justice Shaji P Chaly & Justice Ashok Menon, thus keeping in mind the apprehension expressed by the petitioner relating to transportation of patients amid COVID 19 Lockdown due to lack of operation of auto rickshaws and taxies in the State directed the government to ensure that in the event of any urgent requirement sought for by any persons for immediate medical attention.
The bench listed the matter for next hearing on 11th of May, 2020.
-India Legal Bureau