Recently, Delhi High Court directed the Principal District and Sessions Judges of all district courts in the city to address the issue and ensure that inspections of all washroom facilities, for both men and women, are conducted within their respective jurisdictions.

Further, the court instructed the Delhi government's Public Works Department (PWD) to implement corrective measures to restore all male and female washroom facilities in the district courts to a functional and sanitary condition.

"This court reiterates that access to clean, functional & secure washroom facilities is a basic necessity, especially for women members of the Bar.

"The PWD & other civic agencies shall extend full cooperation & coordinate with other stakeholders to ensure compliance of this order," Justice Sanjeev Narula said.

These inspections should concentrate on the functionality, hygiene, and safety of the washroom facilities, with a compliance report detailing any required repairs or improvements to be submitted to the court within two weeks. The high court was considering a petition from a practicing woman lawyer who highlighted the unhygienic conditions of the washroom facilities in the lawyers' chamber block at the Saket district court, particularly those designated for women lawyers.

The court reviewed photographs submitted by the lawyer, which illustrated an alarming level of neglect, showing washrooms maintained in unsanitary conditions. The petitioner had also made a representation to the relevant authorities, highlighting critical issues such as non-functional toilet seats, insufficient water supply, and the condition of washroom doors that are either broken or lack proper locking mechanisms. 

The court expressed particular concern for women lawyers, emphasizing that privacy and safety are paramount. It noted that despite the petitioner's efforts to raise these issues, no response or remedial action had been taken by the authorities.

"The unhygienic conditions in the washrooms directly affect the safety & health of women lawyers using these facilities. The failure to provide clean, functional, & safe washrooms, particularly in an environment as vital as the district courts demands immediate attention of all stakeholders," the court said.

The court emphasized that the authorities must take necessary steps to rectify the current situation and ensure that these facilities adhere to a basic standard of hygiene.

Also, the judge appointed a court commissioner to conduct a thorough inspection of the women's washrooms in all district courts.

The high court specified that the court commissioner should prepare a comprehensive report detailing the conditions of the washrooms, identifying deficiencies, and providing photographic evidence of her findings. This report, which should also outline the steps taken by the authorities to address the issues, is to be submitted to the court by December 5, the date of the next hearing. Additionally, the court directed the Public Works Department (PWD) to establish a regular maintenance schedule to prevent future deterioration of these essential facilities.