Justice Sanjeev Narula observed that the negligence in maintaining these facilities cannot be ignored, and the lack of hygiene products, along with infrastructural shortcomings, requires immediate attention.
NEW DELHI: The Delhi High Court has taken note of the “distressing” state of female washrooms in the district courts and has ordered authorities to ensure a uniform standard of hygiene and functionality across all such facilities, including those for men and differently-abled individuals.
Justice Sanjeev Narula observed that the negligence in maintaining these facilities cannot be ignored, and the lack of hygiene products, along with infrastructural shortcomings, requires immediate attention.
The judge directed the principal district and sessions judges of all district courts to review the report, identify necessary corrective actions, implement them, and submit a progress report. The court also noted that the conditions in washrooms within the lawyers’ chamber blocks were even worse. It instructed the bar associations to oversee the maintenance of these washrooms and submit a compliance report.
A report filed by a court commissioner revealed that many female washrooms in the lawyers’ chamber blocks lack adequate infrastructure, such as proper lighting, ventilation, soap, and functional sanitary facilities. Furthermore, the washrooms suffer from irregular maintenance due to a shortage of sanitation staff. The Saket courts also face water supply problems, and Karkardooma is experiencing a significant shortage of cleaning staff.
The court instructed the public works department to initiate construction and repair work for the washrooms as per the relevant tenders and directed chief engineers of all court complexes to coordinate with the principal district and sessions judges to ensure uninterrupted water supply to the washrooms.
A detailed report submitted by Ms. Nathrani on December 4, 2024, highlighted the severe deficiencies in the facilities, calling for urgent action. The judge emphasized that the negligence in maintaining these washrooms cannot be overlooked and that immediate steps must be taken to address the lack of hygiene products, poor maintenance, and infrastructural issues.
While the petition focused specifically on female washrooms, the court’s directions apply equally to all washrooms—male, female, and those for differently-abled individuals—in the district courts to ensure consistent standards of hygiene and functionality.
This order was passed following a petition from a woman lawyer who raised concerns about the unsanitary conditions of the washrooms for female lawyers at the Saket district court.
The matter will be heard in February.
Case Title: SMITA KUMARI RAJGARHIA v. GOVT. OF NCT OF DELHI
