The Delhi High Court responds to the alarming surge in dengue cases, directing the Municipal Corporation of Delhi to provide a detailed status report within two weeks. The court emphasizes the need for comprehensive data and addresses a proposed fine increase for mosquito breeding as part of its proactive stance to combat the escalating public health crisis.
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Delhi: On Friday, the Delhi High Court called upon the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) to provide a detailed status report. The court’s directive seeks to uncover the underlying reasons for the surge in dengue incidences over the past three months. This inquiry comes as part of a Suo motu case initiated by the court in 2021, aimed at tackling the spread of vector-borne diseases.
The bench, led by Acting Chief Justice Manmohan and including Justice Manmeet PS Arora, emphasized the need for comprehensive data from all zones under the MCD’s jurisdiction. The court’s intervention underscores a growing concern over public health and the effectiveness of current measures to control dengue fever, a potentially life-threatening condition transmitted by mosquitoes.
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The court also addressed the Delhi cabinet’s proposal to significantly increase fines for mosquito breeding on premises. The proposed amendment seeks to escalate the penalty from a nominal Rs 500 to a substantial Rs 5,000. This move is intended to serve as a stronger deterrent against negligence that contributes to mosquito breeding, thereby reducing the risk of dengue outbreaks.
Amicus curiae advocate Rajat Aneja highlighted a disturbing trend, noting a “300 per cent increase in the cases of dengue” within the last quarter, with the west zone alone reporting over 380 cases. However, the lack of transparency in some zones, particularly the central and south, has been a point of concern, prompting calls for a more detailed and accurate status report from the MCD.
The court’s order for a comprehensive status report includes a directive for the MCD to “file a better status report with all facts and figures of all zones in two weeks.” This report is expected to shed light on the factors contributing to the recent spike in dengue cases, facilitating more effective countermeasures.
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Furthermore, the Delhi government’s counsel informed the court of a proposal sent to the Centre, aiming to amend the law to increase the penalty for mosquito breeding. The High Court has urged the Union of India (UOI) to “expedite the decision on the said proposal,” highlighting the urgency of implementing more stringent preventive measures.
The court also reminded the Centre of a previous high court order, which recommended that the Delhi government should “seriously examine the proposal for imposition of ‘on the spot’ fines on the public for deterrence against mosquito breeding in their premises.”
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This suggestion aims to empower authorities to take immediate action against those found to be contributing to the risk of dengue, thereby enhancing public health safety.
Delhi High Court calls for a status report from MCD on dengue surge, with the next hearing set for March 19.
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