The Karnataka High Court has directed the authorities to consider the representation submitted by a 51-year-old government employee, requesting exemption from the ongoing census work on the basis of her medical condition.
Background of the Case
The government employee, identified as KS Sharadamna, submitted two representations on April 8 and 10, requesting exemption from discharging duties as a census enumerator in connection with the ensuing Census 2027 phase 1 operation. As no response was forthcoming from the authorities, she approached the high court seeking relief.
Medical Certificate Submitted
After perusing the materials on record, Justice Sachin Shankar Magadum noted that the petitioner has placed reliance on a medical certificate issued by the competent authority in the district hospital. In the certificate, the attending doctor has opined that the petitioner is medically unfit to stand for prolonged periods and is also unable to walk long distances.
Court's Observations
The duties attached to census work, more particularly house listing and enumeration, undeniably require extensive physical exertion. This includes prolonged standing, walking across designated areas, and undertaking door-to-door data collection. The court observed: "This court cannot lose sight of the fact that census operations, though of paramount public importance, demand considerable physical endurance from the personnel engaged in such tasks. The material on record prima facie indicates that the petitioner has placed sufficient medical evidence before the authorities seeking exemption or appropriate relief."
The judge further directed the authorities to consider the petitioner's representation and pass appropriate orders in accordance with law, taking into account the medical evidence provided.
