In Brief
A suo motu Supreme Court petition addressing COVID-19 hospital safety following a fatal fire in Rajkot, Gujarat. The Court recognized the right to health under Article 21 and directed all States to appoint nodal fire safety officers, conduct monthly fire audits, and ensure No Objection Certificates for hospitals. The Court mandated strict enforcement of COVID-19 SOPs including masks, distancing, and surveillance at public gatherings, with penalties under the Disaster Management Act and IPC. Political parties were required to comply with Election Commission guidelines during campaigns. The Court emphasized that citizens must follow protocols to protect collective health, that healthcare workers need rest, and that States should cap private hospital fees. The matter was listed for further consideration after four weeks.
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