Maha govt must tackle COVID-19 spread at Arthur Road Jail: HC
At least 77 inmates and 26 personnel of Arthur RoadJail tested positive for coronavirus early this week.
Justice Bharati Dangre on Friday was hearing a bailapplication filed by Ali Akbar Shroff, one of the inmates atthe prison, seeking temporary bail on medical grounds.
In his order, Justice Dangre noted that the situationwas precarious and in such a contingency, the state governmentand the policy makers should take a decision.
"If it is true that more than 100 patients havetested positive in Arthur Road Jail, then it is for theauthorities to ensure that other inmates, who are presentlylodged in the jail, are not infected by the virus on accountof overcrowding," the court said.
The authorities must remember that inmates had theright to a safe and healthy environment even when they wereincarcerated, Justice Dangre said.
The court directed the state government and prisondepartment to take appropriate steps.
"There is always a hope and expectation that the jailauthorities are sensitive to the prevalent situation," thecourt said.
The bench noted that there were several inmates abovethe age of 60 and others who suffered from ailments.
"Under such circumstances, it is open for the stategovernment and jail authorities to take appropriate policydecision to tackle the situation to keep all inmates safe andensure that they contain the spread of virus in the jail," thecourt said.
Shroff's counsel Aabad Ponda argued that the inmatesuffered from diabetes, hypertension and high blood pressure,and hence, needed to be kept safe to ensure that he does notcontract the infection.