The Delhi High Court has mandated the Delhi government to furnish a detailed status report detailing its strategies to tackle the deficiency in medical infrastructure within the city. This specifically focuses on the scarcity of hospital beds, requiring a comprehensive plan of action.

The bench, led by Acting Chief Justice Manmohan and Justice Mini Pushkarna, underscored the urgent requirement to synchronize medical amenities with the increasing population of the national capital in a ruling dated December 13th.

This directive originates from a suo motu Public Interest Litigation (PIL) initiated back in 2017, centered around the accessibility of ICU beds and ventilator facilities in government hospitals. The court emphasized the escalating demand that has exceeded the existing supply, specifically spotlighting the shortage of hospital beds in its most recent order.

The report brought attention to a heartbreaking incident where a 14-year-old girl passed away from blood cancer at AIIMS on December 5. Prior to this, three government hospitals in Delhi had refused treatment, citing deficiencies in medicines, beds, or equipment.

Acknowledging the gravity of the situation, the court stated, “Upon a reading of this report, it is apparent that medical infrastructure in the city of Delhi is inadequate and the number of hospital beds is insufficient. The demand is far in excess of the supply. The said report is taken on record.”

"Learned counsel for GNCTD is directed to file a status report within four weeks. The status report will indicate as to how the GNCTD plans to ensure that the medical infrastructure keeps pace with the city’s population. The status report shall also deal with the suggestions given by the learned Amicus Curiae," the bench ordered.

Earlier, hospitals managed by the Central Government were directed to set up a control room to offer live updates on bed availability with ventilator facilities.

This mandate encompassed the dissemination of relevant phone numbers through public notices in print media and web portals.

The court has scheduled further hearing on this matter for January 29, 2024.