The Delhi High Court has mandated an urgent inspection of all washroom facilities within the city’s district courts following a petition that shed light on their deplorable conditions. The court emphasized that access to clean, functional, and secure washroom facilities is a fundamental necessity, particularly for women.
Justice Sanjeev Narula has directed the Principal District and Sessions Judges across all district courts in Delhi to oversee inspections ensuring that both men’s and women’s washrooms are evaluated for hygiene, functionality, and safety. Additionally, the Delhi government’s Public Works Department (PWD) has been tasked with implementing necessary corrective measures to restore and maintain these facilities.
The directive came after a petition by a practicing female lawyer highlighted especially unsanitary conditions in the women’s washrooms at the lawyers’ chamber block in the Saket district court. The court reviewed photographic evidence provided by the petitioner, which revealed a disturbing state of neglect, including non-functional toilet seats, inadequate water supply, and compromised privacy due to broken or ineffective locking mechanisms on doors.
Expressing concern, Justice Narula noted the severity of the impact on female lawyers, for whom safety and privacy are essential. The court criticized the authorities for their lack of response to the petitioner’s earlier representations and underscored the urgent need for action.
A compliance report detailing the current state of the washrooms and the required repairs or improvements is expected to be submitted to the court within two weeks. In recognition of the situation’s gravity, a court commissioner has been appointed to conduct a thorough inspection of the women’s washrooms across all district courts. This report will include photographic evidence and outline the steps taken by authorities to amend the situation, due by December 5, the next hearing date.
