'Mattress Is A Basic Need': AP High Court Laments Improper Bedding In Govt Hostels, Seeks Status Report

Noting that letting children sleep without mattresses contravenes guidelines of the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights, a Division Bench of Chief Justice Dhiraj Singh Thakur and Justice Ravi Cheemalapati remarked,

“… as per the guidelines, a mattress is required to be provided one at the time of admission of the child, and one every year thereafter. This is one of the basic needs of a child, apart from the other infrastructure which is required to be provided.”

Following a series of alarming reports from the District Legal Services Authorities (DLSAs) revealing substandard toilet facilities, lack of clean bedding, and unsafe infrastructure, particularly in girls' hostels, the Court had directed the Chief Secretary to virtually appear before the Court and subsequently formulate proposals outlining measures to improve the conditions of such hostels.

The Court was informed that improvements had been made in the physical infrastructure of the hostels and the amenities which are being provided.

With regard to the girls' hostels in Narsipatnam which were earlier revealed to have only one functional toilet and bathroom, the Court was informed that on the date of inspection by the officers of District Legal Service Authority, some of the toilets and bathrooms were under repair, which have since been made workable and are currently in use.

The Court was also assured that a comprehensive action plan in consonance with the guidelines would be formulated and implemented.

The Court however directed a detailed status report to be filed in this regard by the respondents which “should also deal with the improvements with regard to the items which are otherwise required to be furnished and provided to the children in accordance with the regulations.”

“Regular checks are required to be undertaken by the senior level officers in every district with a view to ensure that the scheme is implemented in its letter and spirit. The names of the officers, and the periodicity in which the inspections are conducted by them, shall also be furnished to this Court on a monthly basis.” the Division Bench stated.

The matter is now listed on August 20 for further hearing.

Case Details:

Case Number: WP(PIL) NO: 47 of 2023

Case Name: Keethineedi Akhil Sri Guru Teja Vs. The State of Andhra Pradesh and others

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