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. ALSO READ | Section 144 Imposed In Several Districts Of Rajasthan To Counter Surge In Covid 19 Cases


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.

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'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)

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