Delhi Govt's Order To Reserve 80% ICU Beds In 33 Hosp For Covid-19 Patients Unreasonable, Violating Rights: HC

The Delhi government order has been challenged by the 'Association of Healthcare Providers' which has stated that it was passed in an irrational manner.

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New Delhi: The Delhi High Court has stayed the Arvind Kejriwal-led Delhi government's order directing 33 big private hospitals to reserve 80 percent of ICU beds for Covid-19 patients.  Justice Navin Chawla said that on the basis of the first impression, the September 13 order appears to be arbitrary, unreasonable and violative of the fundamental rights of citizens guaranteed under the Constitution. The court has issued notices and is seeking responses of the Delhi government and the Centre. "Prima facie the order appears to be arbitrary, unreasonable and violative of the fundamental rights of citizens guaranteed under the Constitution. The operation of the order shall remain stayed till the next date of the hearing," the court said. 'Association of Healthcare Providers' has submitted a plea demanding that the order to reserve 80 percent ICU beds for Coronavirus patients be quashed. The association stated the 33 hospitals are its members and the Delhi government's order was passed in an irrational manner. The matter has been listed for further hearing on October 16. Delhi government has, however, defended its decision by saying that it is only for 33 hospitals and 20 percent ICU beds remain for patients undergoing other serious ailments. It has been done keeping in view the sudden spike in cases of the virus, the government added. (With Agency Inputs) WATCH | Mumbai local buses ignore all precautions against Coronavirus