BackCovid-19: SC seeks govt's response on graded protective gears for doctors
The PIL sought an interim order for immediate implementation of infection prevention guidelinesThe petitioner pleaded for availability of head cover, face shield, and medical masks among other things
PremiumNEW DELHI: The Supreme Court on Wednesday sought the Centre's response on a plea seeking directions to make available World Health Organisation-approved protective gears for doctors treating covid-19 patients.
The plea, filed by Nagpur-based doctor Jerryl Banait, was heard by a two-judge bench comprising justices DY Chandrachud and MR Shah via videoconferencing.
The PIL sought an interim order for immediate implementation of infection prevention guidelines issued by the Centre and WHO for rational use of personal protective equipment.
The division bench asked solicitor general Tushar Mehta, appearing for the Centre, to look into the issue and file a response by early next week.
Mehta requested the bench not to issue a notice and simply provide him a copy of the petition so that the government could study the plea.
"Yesterday we had a similar matter. We are taking steps. Don't issue notice. Give the petition to us. We will take a call on it," said Mehta.
Justice Chandrachud asked advocate Sunil Fernandes, representing the petitioner, to serve a copy of the plea to the Centre.
The petitioner pleaded for the availability of head cover, face shield, medical masks, shower cover among others for doctors in tier 2 and tier 3 cities along with the metro cities.
The petition said it was the government's duty to ensure that medical health professions are provided graded protective gear as they come in constant contact with covid-19 patients and there is no specific vaccine available to cure the disease.
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