According to Tripura High Court the maximum testing needs to be conducted in state-run orphanages and jails.

A suo-motu case was filed on COVID preparedness in the state-run orphanages and jails, which was heard by the Tripura High Court.    

The court has asked for more information on May 24, the next date of hearing after the state government submitted details on the availability of infrastructure.

A two-judge bench comprising Chief Justice Akhil A Kureshi and Justice Subhasish Talapatra was hearing the case. 

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”.

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

“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. 

It is hoped by the Court that the Advocate General will look after this issue with the state administration and chalk out a plan.