In a significant move to protect vulnerable citizens from the biting cold, the Jharkhand High Court has issued urgent directions to provide immediate shelter and relief to homeless populations across the state.
Court Directives for Winter Protection
Justice Sujit Narayan Prasad, who serves as both a Jharkhand High Court judge and the executive chairman of the Jharkhand State Legal Services Authority (JHALSA), has instructed all District Legal Services Authorities (DLSAs) to immediately identify and assist homeless individuals, with particular focus on women, widows, children, and footpath dwellers.
The judicial intervention comes as night temperatures have plummeted across Jharkhand, creating potentially life-threatening conditions for those living without proper shelter. The Indian Meteorological Department confirmed on Tuesday that cold wave conditions have been observed in several western and central parts of the state over the past 24 hours.
Ground-Level Implementation Strategy
Justice Prasad has mandated that DLSAs form special teams comprising panel advocates, retainer advocates, and para-legal volunteers to conduct field visits and identify people sleeping on footpaths and in other exposed areas. These teams will work in close coordination with urban local bodies to ensure identified individuals receive immediate accommodation in shelter homes.
Beyond just providing temporary shelter, the directive emphasizes the importance of connecting these vulnerable populations with social welfare schemes they are entitled to receive. This comprehensive approach aims to address both immediate and long-term needs of Jharkhand's homeless population.
Essential Relief Measures Ordered
The court has further directed that DLSAs, in synchronization with district administration, arrange for essential winter relief including public fire arrangements, woollen blankets, warm clothing, and food for those in need.
JHALSA released an official statement highlighting the critical situation: "People living on footpaths face extremely difficult circumstances during winter months, which often leads to untoward incidents. JHALSA is committed to identifying and assisting them through coordinated efforts with both government and non-government organizations."
The weather data underscores the urgency of these measures, with Gumla recording a minimum temperature of 7.8 degrees centigrade, creating hazardous conditions for those without proper shelter and warmth.
