In 2024, Chief Justice Ramesh Sinha of the Chhattisgarh High Court demonstrated a strong commitment to societal welfare by taking suo motu cognizance of several pressing public issues.
His proactive approach became a cornerstone of his tenure, addressing matters that otherwise might not have received timely attention.
For instance, he intervened in cases concerning the deteriorating condition of public healthcare in rural areas. Reports of inadequate facilities and a lack of medical staff in primary health centers prompted the Chief Justice to initiate judicial action, ensuring directives were issued to improve infrastructure and services for marginalized communities.
Another significant intervention by Chief Justice Sinha involved environmental conservation. This move not only highlighted the importance of environmental preservation but also showcased the judiciary’s role in addressing climate challenges at the regional level.
Moreover, Chief Justice Sinha’s initiatives extended to ensuring justice for the underprivileged. Recognizing the challenges faced by migrant workers post-pandemic, he took suo motu notice of their exploitation in various industries.
Through these actions, Justice Sinha underscored the judiciary’s vital role in bridging gaps in governance and fostering social justice, leaving a lasting impact on Chhattisgarh’s legal and social landscape.
Here are some of the notable Suo Motu Cases reported by Law Trend in 2024:
Chhattisgarh High Court Takes Suo Motu Cognizance on Fluoride Contamination in Gariaband
The Chhattisgarh High Court initiated suo motu public interest litigation (WPPIL No. 58 of 2024) following a disturbing report published in the Times of India on August 3, 2024. The report highlights dangerously high fluoride levels in the drinking water of Gariaband District, with concentrations reaching eight times the safe limit. The case has sparked serious concerns over public health and governmental accountability.
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77 Years of Neglect Must End: Chhattisgarh High Court Takes Suo Motu Cognizance on Flooded Villages
The Chhattisgarh High Court addressed a grave humanitarian issue brought to light by a news report on the dire conditions faced by villagers in Bijapur district. The suo motu
public interest litigation (PIL) was initiated based on a news article published by Bansal E-News titled “Barish Mein Taapu Bane Chhattisgarh Ke 30 Gaon: Zindagi Daav Par Lagakar Gramin Laate Hain Ration,” highlighting the severe challenges faced by the residents of 30 villages turned into islands due to incessant rains.
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Chhattisgarh HC Takes Suo Motu Cognizance of Bilaspur’s Drainage and Power Supply Issues
The Chhattisgarh High Court, Bilaspur, registered a suo motu public interest litigation (PIL) based on a news item published in the local newspaper “Navbharat” on June 13, 2024. The news highlighted severe civic issues in Bilaspur, including waterlogging due to incomplete drainage construction and power outages caused by hoardings interfering with electricity lines.
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Sorry State of Affairs- Chhattisgarh HC Takes Suo Motu Cognizance of Woman Delivering Baby on Health Centre Floor
In a significant development, the High Court of Chhattisgarh, Bilaspur, took suo motu cognizance of a distressing incident reported in the Times of India, Raipur Edition, dated June 10, 2024. The report highlighted a case where a 25-year-old pregnant woman was forced to deliver her baby on the floor of the Navanagar Sub Health Centre in Surguja District (Ambikapur) on June 8, 2024, due to the absence of any medical staff.
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Chhattisgarh High Court Takes Suo Motu Cognizance of Fatal Road Accident, Highlights Dire Traffic Conditions
The Division Bench, comprising Chief Justice Ramesh Sinha and Justice Parth Prateem Sahu, in Chhattisgarh High Court has taken suo motu cognizance of a tragic road accident that resulted in the deaths of 19 individuals, including three minors, in Kawardha district.
The case, registered as WPPIL No. 37 of 2024, was initiated based on news reports from Dainik Bhaskar, Bilaspur Bhaskar, and Nav Bharat, highlighting the dire state of road safety in the region.
The court directed the Chhattisgarh Transport Commissioner, the Regional Officer of the National Highway Division, and the Project Director of the National Highway Authority of India to take immediate steps to address the identified issues. The court also dispensed with the issuance of notices as all respondents were represented by their respective counsel.
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Chhattisgarh HC Takes Suo Motu Cognizance of High Still Births due to Lack of Beds and Ventilators in Govt Hospitals
Recently, the Chhattisgarh HC took suo motu cognizance of high still births due to lack of beds and ventilators in govt hospitals.
The bench of Chief Justice Ramesh Sinha and Justice Rajani Dubey was dealing with the suo motu public interest litigation has been registered on the basis of news items published in Dainik Bhaskar dated 29.04.2024.
In this case, the reported statistics reveal a grim reality of infant mortality and maternal health in the region, particularly highlighting the distressing number of stillbirths and deaths among newborns. Over the last five years, more than 40,000 children aged 0-5 have tragically passed away, with a significant portion not surviving beyond 28 days of birth. The alarming figure of over 24,000 stillbirths underscores a critical issue that demands urgent attention.
Moreover, the revelation that more than 3,000 pregnant women lost their lives between 2019 and 2023 adds another dimension to the healthcare crisis. The primary causes cited for these tragedies include anemia, malnutrition, and a deficient healthcare system ill-equipped to handle newborn care.
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Chhattisgarh HC Takes Suo Motu Cognizance of High-Tension Electric Towers/Lines in 10 Villages
Chhattisgarh HC took suo motu cognizance of high-tension electric towers/lines in 10 villages.
The bench of Chief Justice Ramesh Sinha and Justice Rajani Dubey was dealing with the suo moto public interest litigation has been registered on the basis of news items published in Dainik Bhaskar dated 27.04.2024.
In this case, the news report highlighted a concerning situation near the Bilaspur Ratanpur National Highway, where 8 to 10 villages are situated. In each village, there are numerous high-tension electric towers, totalling more than 20 in each area. These towers are connected by wires carrying electricity ranging from 400 to 800 KV.
High Court directed the Registry to implead Power Grid Corporation of India Ltd. through the Deputy General Manager and Jabalpur Transmission Corporation Limited, through its Managing Director.
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Chhattisgarh HC Closes Suo Motu PIL on Non-Payment of Compensation to Victims of Crime After Noting Release of Amount to Victims & Families
The Chhattisgarh High Court closed suo motu PIL on non-payment of compensation to victims of crime after noting the release of the amount to victims & families.
The bench of Chief Justice Ramesh Sinha and Justice Rajani Dubey was dealing with the case where a suo-moto PIL was registered on the basis of newspaper reporting published in Dainik Bhaskar on 25.03.2024 with the caption “As Dushkarm Pidita Masum Ke Mata-Pita Aaropi Ke Pariwar Ki Dahashat Me Sirgitti Chhod Gaon Gaye, Muwavaja Nahi Mila, Udhar Me Antim Sanshkar”.
Consequently, the Registrar General of the Court was instructed to gather information regarding this matter from the Member Secretary of the Chhattisgarh State Legal Services Authority and present it before the Court.
In response to this directive, the Member Secretary provided information through a communication dated 05.04.2024. It was revealed that as of February 2024, a total amount of Rs. 26,41,00,200/- was pending for payment in 753 cases. A district-wise breakdown for 23 districts was also provided in tabular form.
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Cyber Crimes Increasing Day by Day- Chhattisgarh HC Takes Suo Motu Cognizance of Lack of Experts in Cyber Police Stations; Calls Report From DGP
Chhattisgarh High Court took Suo Motu Cognizance of the lack of experts in cyber police stations.
The bench of Chief Justice Ramesh Sinha and Justice Rajani Dubey was dealing with the case where a PIL has been initiated based on a news report from “Bilaspur Bhaskar” dated 24.04.2024.
The said news report states that the Cyber Police Station has registered only seven cases during the period of seven months because the said Police Station lacks experts in the field and further, for the last three months, not a single FIR has been registered relating to cyber crime.
High Court directed the Director General of Police, Chhattisgarh, Raipur to file his personal affidavit where cognizance has been taken by this Court on the basis of the aforesaid news item with respect to lack of experts in the Cyber Police Station for curbing the cybercrime.
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State Authorities Must Act Against Noise Pollution Without Waiting for Complaints: Chhattisgarh High Court
In a significant move to curb noise pollution, the Chhattisgarh High Court, led by Chief Justice Ramesh Sinha and Justice Bibhu Datta Guru, emphasized strict enforcement of regulations under the Chhattisgarh Kolahal Niyantran Adhiniyam, 1985. The court was hearing a Suo Motu Public Interest Litigation (PIL) (WPPIL No. 88 of 2023), which was initiated based on a news item highlighting concerns around rising noise pollution in the state.
The court, in its judgment, underscored the need for proactive enforcement, remarking that “State authorities must act against noise pollution without waiting for complaints.” This statement echoes the guidelines issued by both the Supreme Court and the High Court regarding noise pollution. The court further instructed that any modified vehicles used for DJ purposes should be confiscated if they violate the rules, with repeat offenders facing more stringent actions, including the cancellation of permits.
Chhattisgarh HC Takes Suo Motu Cognizance of Dilapidated Condition of School Surrounded by Illegal Electricity Connections
The Chhattisgarh High Court has expressed serious concerns over the safety of children at Government Primary School, Tukardih, where 139 students are reportedly studying under the constant threat of electrocution. In a suo moto public interest litigation (WPPIL No. 75 of 2024), the court took cognizance of a report published in Haribhoomi, Bilaspur, highlighting the precarious condition of the school building and the illegal electricity connections that endanger the lives of the students.
In response to the gravity of the situation, the court issued a directive for the Secretary of the School Education Department, Mahanadi Bhawan, Atal Nagar, to submit a personal affidavit by 30 September 2024. The affidavit must detail the steps taken to ensure the safety of the students and the removal of the illegal electricity connections.
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Chhattisgarh HC Takes Suo Motu Cognizance of Oxygen Plants Built at the Cost of Crores of Rupees Lying Closed
In a significant development, the Chhattisgarh High Court has taken suo motu cognizance of a troubling situation involving the closure of oxygen plants in the state’s government hospitals, particularly at the District Hospital, Bilaspur. The court initiated the Public Interest Litigation (PIL) after a news report highlighted the non-operational status of these plants, which were installed at a considerable public cost during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The court, after hearing the arguments presented by Advocate General Mr. Prafull N. Bharat and his assistant, Deputy Advocate General Mr. Shashank Thakur, expressed grave concern over the condition of these hospitals. The court observed:
“The oxygen plants built at the cost of crores of rupees in the District Hospital, Bilaspur, are lying closed… The hospital management keeps claiming that everything is fine, but no employees have been deployed for its upkeep and maintenance.”
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Chhattisgarh High Court Takes Suo Moto Cognizance in Case of Medical Negligence Based on News Report
In a remarkable turn of events, the Chhattisgarh High Court has initiated suo moto proceedings following a disturbing news report published in the Haribhoomi Newspaper, Bilaspur edition. The court, comprising Chief Justice Ramesh Sinha and Justice Bibhu Datta Guru, took immediate cognizance of the matter, which highlights a tragic case of medical negligence. The article, titled “तड़पते बेटे को देख पिता ने की इलाज की फरियाद, डॉक्टर ने बिना इलाज के भेज दिया CIMS” (translated as “Father pleaded for his son’s treatment, doctor referred to CIMS without treatment”), described the harrowing experience of a father who struggled to get medical attention for his severely injured son, only to be denied proper care.
The court, while expressing its concern over the reported incident, made a significant observation: “In matters of life and death, the delay in treatment is nothing short of a violation of fundamental rights. It is imperative that the state ensures prompt and effective medical care to all citizens, irrespective of location or financial status.”
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Students Should Not Be Forced to the Streets Due to Lack of Basic Amenities: Chhattisgarh High Court
In a significant ruling, the Chhattisgarh High Court, led by Chief Justice Ramesh Sinha and Justice Bibhu Datta Guru, expressed deep concern over the recent protests by students across the state, who took to the streets due to a lack of basic educational resources, including textbooks and proper amenities in schools. The court, while hearing a suo moto public interest litigation (WPPIL No. 81 of 2024), emphasized that such situations are unacceptable and directed state authorities to take immediate action to rectify these issues. The case has raised important questions about the accountability of educational institutions and the role of the state in ensuring the right to education.
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Chhattisgarh High Court Orders State to Intensify Efforts Against Noise Pollution During Festive Seasons
In a crucial development, the Chhattisgarh High Court, while hearing a suo motu public interest litigation (PIL) concerning noise pollution, reaffirmed that amplified noise from DJ-mounted vehicles and similar sources poses serious risks to public health and violates environmental norms. The judgment, issued by a division bench consisting of Chief Justice Ramesh Sinha and Justice Bibhu Datta Guru on October 21, 2024, underscores the need for strict enforcement of noise pollution laws, particularly during festival seasons.
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Clean Water Bodies Are a Necessity, Not a Choice: Chhattisgarh High Court in PIL on Idol Immersion
The Chhattisgarh High Court, in a significant move for environmental protection, emphasized that maintaining clean water bodies is “a necessity, not a choice.” The court took suo moto cognizance of an alarming report about the pollution of water bodies in Raipur following idol immersions during the Dussehra festival. Chief Justice Ramesh Sinha and Justice Bibhu Datta Guru issued strong directives to ensure thorough post-immersion cleaning across the state.
The bench expressed its strong disapproval of the local authorities’ failure to maintain hygiene and safety. Noting the importance of clean water bodies, the court asserted that “clean water bodies are a necessity, not a choice,” underscoring the obligation of the administration to act promptly to avoid public health risks.
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Action Needed to Prevent Elephant Electrocution Due to Negligence: Chhattisgarh High Court Takes Suo Motu Cognizance
The Chhattisgarh High Court, led by Chief Justice Ramesh Sinha and Justice Bibhu Datta Guru, has taken suo moto cognizance in a tragic case of wildlife endangerment, WPPIL No. 89 of 2024. Prompted by news reports in Times of India and The Hitavada, the court acted on the reported electrocution of three elephants, including a calf, in the Chuhkimar forest of Raigarh district. This incident underscores the rising threat posed by low-hanging high-voltage wires to wildlife and raises grave concerns about negligence by responsible authorities.
The court’s observation reflects a stern stance: “The recurrence of such incidents underscores a systemic lapse that needs urgent correction.” The judges noted further tragic electrocution incidents, including one elephant death in Bilaspur’s Takhatpur forest and three bear deaths in Kanker district due to similar issues with unprotected live wires.
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Oxygen Zone Intended for Health Now a ‘Dumping Ground’: Chhattisgarh High Court Orders Immediate Cleanup
In a public interest case that has stirred public outrage, the Chhattisgarh High Court, presided over by Chief Justice Ramesh Sinha and Justice Bibhu Datta Guru, has taken suo moto cognizance of the deplorable state of an “Oxygen Zone” created for public health. Registered as WPPIL No. 90 of 2024, this case follows a report in Haribhumi (Bilaspur) dated October 28, 2024, which highlighted severe neglect in maintaining a green zone intended to provide residents with fresh air and recreational space.
In a strongly worded directive, Chief Justice Sinha and Justice Guru emphasized the responsibility of municipal authorities to maintain spaces designated for public welfare. “If an area created for public health is turned into a dumping site, it represents a failure of both intent and execution. Such disregard for public resources and well-being cannot be tolerated,” the court noted.
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Doctors Not Following Guidelines Are Creating Hardships for Patients: Chhattisgarh High Court Calls For Accountability in Health Services
In a significant development aimed at addressing public health service shortcomings, the Chhattisgarh High Court, in a suo motu Public Interest Litigation (PIL), has expressed grave concern over the failure of state medical professionals to adhere to prescribed government guidelines. Chief Justice Ramesh Sinha and Justice Bibhu Datta Guru presided over the case, WPPIL No. 91 of 2024, involving a report indicating that over half of government-appointed doctors in the state are neglecting their duties in district hospitals by engaging in private practice.
The High Court’s insistence on an affidavit from the Secretary of Health and Social Welfare reflects the judiciary’s determination to hold public institutions accountable for the delivery of healthcare services. This affidavit is expected to provide comprehensive details on the actions taken by the state to enforce compliance with the guidelines and ensure that government-employed doctors fulfill their duties at district hospitals.
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Chhattisgarh HC Mandates Thorough Clean-Up of Immersion Sites for Public Safety
In a suo motu public interest litigation (PIL) filed under WPPIL No. 86 of 2024, the High Court of Chhattisgarh, presided over by Chief Justice Ramesh Sinha and Justice Bibhu Datta Guru, addressed concerns regarding the post-immersion debris of idols at immersion sites across Raipur. The court’s focus was on the environmental hazards and public safety risks posed by leftover immersion materials. The issue was highlighted by a news report in Dainik Bhaskar, detailing the state of the Kharun Pool (Kund), where idol remnants posed potential risks, particularly to children playing in the area.
The court directed further reporting from the Secretary of Urban Administration and Development, Chhattisgarh, by the following week to confirm that similar compliance measures were applied in other districts. The court’s careful attention to this matter underlined its commitment to maintaining environmental standards and ensuring public safety.
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Chhattisgarh High Court Directs State Government to Expedite Cabinet Decision on Public Interest Issue
In a recent suo motu Public Interest Litigation (PIL) case numbered WPPIL No. 54 of 2024, the Chhattisgarh High Court, presided over by Chief Justice Ramesh Sinha and Justice Ravindra Kumar Agrawal, took a firm stance on urging the state government to address a significant legal issue affecting the public. The court emphasized that the matter, which had been referred to the Department of Law and Legislative Affairs, required a decision at the Cabinet level, setting a timeline for resolution.
The court mandated that the state government submit the proposal to the Cabinet and ensure that the decision is made within four weeks. This directive illustrates the judiciary’s role in holding the executive accountable to its responsibilities toward citizens.
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Tiger Found Dead in Unreserved Forest: Chhattisgarh HC Directs Accountability on Wildlife Protection
In a crucial move towards wildlife conservation, the Chhattisgarh High Court took cognizance of an alarming report on tiger poaching within the Guru Ghasidas National Park. The court has directed the state’s Additional Chief Secretary, Forest and Climate Change Department, to file a detailed affidavit addressing measures taken to protect wildlife in this critical region. This suo moto Public Interest Litigation (PIL), listed as WPPIL No. 92 of 2024, was initiated following a report published by The Times of India on November 10, 2024, which highlighted the recent death of a tiger, suspected to be a case of revenge killing.
The court ordered the Additional Chief Secretary, Forest and Climate Change, to submit an affidavit within ten days detailing steps taken to safeguard wildlife and prevent further poaching incidents. Chief Justice Sinha and Justice Prasad commented on the urgency of proactive measures, stating, “Repetitive incidents of tiger killings reflect a disturbing laxity in enforcement of wildlife protection norms.” The court further remarked, “Conservation cannot be restricted to reserved areas; unreserved zones are equally deserving of stringent protection to deter such heinous acts.”
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Mid-Day Meal Meant for Children Found ‘Fit Only for Cattle’: Chhattisgarh HC Takes Suo Motu Cognizance
In a significant step addressing concerns over the quality of mid-day meals in government schools, the Chhattisgarh High Court took suo motu cognizance of alarming reports regarding the meal standards for schoolchildren in Bilaspur. The court registered this Public Interest Litigation (PIL) under WPPIL No. 94 of 2024, prompted by a local news article detailing disturbing accounts of subpar food being served in the schools’ mid-day meal program, allegedly causing children to reject the meals, which were then fed to stray cattle.
The court expressed strong disapproval of the alleged negligence, remarking, “A child’s plate is not a place for indifference or apathy. The meal provided is not only food but a symbol of care and responsibility.” Such a sentiment underscored the court’s determination to address and rectify any lapses in the mid-day meal scheme.
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A Society That Ignores Its Roads, Ignores Its Progress: Chhattisgarh High Court Pushes for Infrastructure Accountability
In a landmark judgment emphasizing the importance of public infrastructure, the Chhattisgarh High Court, presided over by Chief Justice Ramesh Sinha and Justice Amitendra Kishore Prasad, issued critical directives to ensure accountability in road construction and maintenance across the state. The case, WPPIL No. 127 of 2021, titled In Re. Roads of Chhattisgarh vs. State of Chhattisgarh & Ors., has brought the state’s infrastructure issues into sharp focus.
The Court remarked, “A society that ignores its roads, ignores its progress.” Highlighting the critical role of infrastructure in public welfare, the bench stressed that the failure to maintain roads is a failure to uphold basic governance responsibilities.
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A Society That Ignores Its Roads, Ignores Its Progress: Chhattisgarh High Court Pushes for Infrastructure Accountability
In a landmark judgment emphasizing the importance of public infrastructure, the Chhattisgarh High Court, presided over by Chief Justice Ramesh Sinha and Justice Amitendra Kishore Prasad, issued critical directives to ensure accountability in road construction and maintenance across the state. The case, WPPIL No. 127 of 2021, titled In Re. Roads of Chhattisgarh vs. State of Chhattisgarh & Ors., has brought the state’s infrastructure issues into sharp focus.
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Despite Powers and Resources, Authorities Failed: Chhattisgarh High Court Slams Lax Industrial Waste Management
In a scathing critique, the Chhattisgarh High Court lambasted the state government and its agencies for their failure to manage industrial waste effectively in Bilaspur’s Tifra and Sirgitti industrial areas. Acting on a suo motu public interest litigation (PIL), WPPIL No. 108 of 2024, the court highlighted how negligence had led to significant environmental and public health hazards, despite the authorities possessing ample resources and responsibilities to prevent such issues.
During the hearing, the court expressed dismay at the inaction of the Chhattisgarh Environment Conservation Board (CECB) and other agencies, observing:
“It is very sorry state of affairs that the State and its agencies, despite having all the powers, resources, and capabilities, as well as the CECB, whose sole responsibility is to secure and protect the environment, are not taking timely and effective steps.”
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Taps but No Water: Chhattisgarh High Court Cracks Down on Jal Jeevan Mission Irregularities
In a significant intervention, the Chhattisgarh High Court took suo moto cognizance of a news report highlighting alarming irregularities in the implementation of the Jal Jeevan Mission in Bilaspur district. The court, in its order on December 26, 2024, directed the Secretary of the Public Health and Engineering Department (PHE) to file a detailed affidavit addressing concerns raised in the report. The case, registered as WPPIL No. 109 of 2024, was presided over by Chief Justice Ramesh Sinha and Justice Ravindra Kumar Agrawal.
Highlighting the gravity of the matter, the court stated:
“Public welfare cannot be compromised for procedural lapses and administrative mismanagement. The provision of water, a basic necessity, must not be hindered by negligence.”
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Stolen Resources Must Be Stopped: Chhattisgarh High Court Takes Suo Motu Cognizance of Illegal Murum Excavation
The Chhattisgarh High Court, led by Chief Justice Ramesh Sinha and Justice Ravindra Kumar Agrawal, has taken suo motu cognizance of a concerning news report alleging the illegal excavation and usage of murum (a type of soil) from army land near Chakarbhatha Airport, Raipur. This murum, reportedly stolen, has been used in constructing roads for a private residential project. The court has initiated a Public Interest Litigation (WPPIL No. 111 of 2024) to address the issue.
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