The Madhya Pradesh High Court, recognizing the challenges faced by tribal children from Dhar, has instructed the Zila Panchayat Authorities and Collector to take immediate steps for the construction of a culvert on Koteshwari River to enhance accessibility to a nearby school.

The Division Bench of Justices Vivek Rusia and Anil Verma granted permission for a public interest litigation filed by Rishab Gupta, prompted by a newspaper report highlighting the plight of tribal children in Dhar who were compelled to swim across a river to attend school.

Before the High Court, the petitioner recounted witnessing 30 middle school children from the 'Bheel' community swimming across the river every day to reach their school. The petitioner described his visit to the villages, stating that the only alternative for these children was to traverse a road spanning 10–12 kilometers in length.

In 2011, the Chief Executive Officer of the Zila Panchayat had forwarded a proposal to the Panchayat and Rural Development Department for the construction of a culvert on the river. Despite this initiative, no further action was taken in that regard thereafter.

After the respondents were served notice, the Rural Engineering Services Department in Dhar submitted a proposal with an estimated cost of Rs 1.08 crores. This proposal was subsequently forwarded by the Executive Engineer of Rural Engineering Services in Dhar to the Chief Executive Officer of Jila Panchayat Dhar. The culvert is slated to be constructed under the MGNREGA Scheme, pending approval of the proposal by the relevant department.

“This Court hopes and trust that this will not remain in the note-sheet for years to come and same be given logical end. Construction of bridge is important not only for villagers but students also whether Rural Engineering Services Department, Panchayat and Rural Development Department or Public Works Department construct the same. It is for the Government to sanction the amount and direct the concerned Department”, the court emphasised.

The petitioner, Rishab Gupta, appeared in person during the proceedings. Government Advocate Bhuwan Gautam represented the state authorities.

Case Title: Rishabh Gupta v. The State of Madhya Pradesh & Ors.

Case No: Writ Petition No. 21642 of 2023