Delhi High Court on 16.10.2024 delivered a milestone order with respect to the sanitation facilities in the courts, especially female advocates. Hon’ble Court held that necessary steps must be taken by the Respondents to rectify the current situation and ensure that these facilities meet a basic standard of hygiene.
In this order, the Public Works Department is directed to address the issues raised in the petition immediately. PWD shall take corrective measures to ensure that all male and female washroom facilities are restored to a functional and sanitary condition. Furthermore, PWD is directed to implement a regular maintenance schedule to prevent future deterioration of these essential facilities.
In the court’s opinion, this issue warrants inspection of washroom facilities in all District Courts in Delhi. Accordingly, the court directed the Principal District and Sessions Judges of all District Courts to take cognizance of the matter to ensure that similar inspections of all washroom facilities—both for men and women—are carried out within their respective jurisdictions. These inspections should focus on the washroom facilities’ functionality, hygiene, and safety.
The Court observed that access to clean, functional, and secure washroom facilities is a basic necessity, especially for female members of the Bar. The safety, privacy, and health of female lawyers must be safeguarded, and the departments are expected to treat this matter with the seriousness it warrants.
This petition touches on fundamental rights, women’s empowerment, health concerns at the workplace, and other important aspects of an individual’s life.
