After SC, HC asks state to set up creches in courts

A division bench of Justice V M Kanade and Justice Revati Mohite Dere was hearing a public interest litigation (PIL) which pertains to three issues, including availability of separate toilet blocks and residential accommodations for judicial staff and the dilapidated condition of court buildings.

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Observing that the state had 40 per cent of women judicial officers, which is the highest in the country, the court said the state government should make suitable arrangements for them. “The state government should provide adequate facilities, especially for female judicial officers. We are of the view that creches should be provided for female judicial officers,” said Justices V M Kanade and Revati Mohite Dere

The court added that female judicial officers had long working hours. “The maternity leave is for not more than six months. Therefore, it becomes difficult to look after infants. The state government should look into setting up creches at all the courts,” the bench said.

Meanwhile, a report was submitted in court that stated that there were no separate toilet facilities in courts and officers were residing on rented premises. During the previous hearing, the court directed the Public Works Department to provide basic facilities to court staff. It had also directed the principal district judges of each district to submit a detailed report on facilities provided to officers.

The court said several orders had been issued from time to time to provide water and toilet facilities. It observed that it was embarrassing for officers to go somewhere else to use toilets. The HC has asked the state to inform them about the time required to implement its suggestions. The state has been asked to file a reply within two weeks.

In a different PIL relating to providing facilities to litigants, the court said: “Ensure proper facilities are provided to litigants, who are the real consumers of justice.”

Muharram: After drawing flak from HC over inaction, state tells court that no child was hurt

The state government on Tuesday informed the Bombay High Court that no child was hurt during the procession of Muharram. However, nine people were fined under the Bombay Police Act.

The division bench of Justice V M Kanade and Justice Revati Mohite-dere was hearing a public interest litigation (PIL) that highlighted the use of sharp objects on bodies of adults and children during the mourning processions. “The court does not wish to interfere with religious rights but guidelines needed to be laid down,” the HC said.

The affidavit filed by the state mentioned that instructions were given to police stations to ensure that participants did not inflict injury on themselves. However, nine offenders were fined Rs 1,200, booked under Section 135 of the Bombay Police Act and presented before the Mazgaon court.

It further said that it had videographed the entire procession and took all safety and preventive measures to protect children. It was also brought to the notice of the court that actions were taken against offenders.

The affidavit further stated that no child was found inflicting injuries on himself and no person was also found inflicting injuries on children. In the previous hearing, the court had expressed concern over the participation of children below 18 years and had asked the state why it wasn’t making an effort to restrain them from joining practice sessions. The matter is placed for directions on February 9.