The High Court of Tripura has observed that the State needs to conduct maximum testing in state-run orphanages and jails.    

The Tripura High Court made this observation while hearing a suo-motu case on COVID preparedness in the state-run orphanages and jails.    

The state government also submitted details for the availability of infrastructure following which the court has sought additional information on May 24, the next date of hearing. 

The case was being heard by a two-judge bench comprising Chief Justice Akhil A Kureshi and Justice Subhasish Talapatra. 

The division bench observed: “The young children who are housed in these orphanages, need special protection. The state-administration would ensure maximum possible testing of these children, particularly considering the fact that in recent times the number of positive cases reported in these orphanages is quite high”. 

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While speaking about the jail inmates, the court said that the state which has “restricted the movement of a citizen, of course by authority of law, has the onus to ensure that his health is not jeopardized on account of being kept confined”. 

“We are sure the state administration shall take into account all the observations and directives of the committee specially constituted by the Supreme Court by its order dated 23rd March 2020,” the court said. 

The High Court also said that the state administration is the requirement of round the clock helpline which is efficient, functional and provides all necessary information and support to the relatives of the patients who are in need. 

“In particular, the state may think of devising a system by which the availability of hospital beds with and without oxygen supply and ventilators is constantly made available in the public domain. This will help the relatives of the Covid patients who require urgent hospitalization and oxygen support to identify the proper place without loss of time,” the division bench observer. 

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The Court hoped that the Advocate General will take up this issue with the state administration and devise a plan as found appropriate.