The Delhi High Court on Monday directed the Centre to apprise it about its decision on a request sent by Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia to Defence Minister Rajnath Singh to lend services of the Armed forces to set up, operationalise and run COVID-19 health facilities with about 10,000 oxygenated and 1,000 ICU beds.
Additional Solicitor General Chetan Sharma informed the court that the minister himself is looking into the matter at present, and sought time to inform the court about further progress.
The division bench of Justices Vipin Sanghi and Rekha Palli said there is no doubt that a “good case” is made out for the Army’s help. “It is a national calamity, a major one,” said the court.
On May 1, the court had suggested the Delhi government seek assistance from the Army to set up field hospitals.
“Army works at its own level. They have their own infrastructure and sources. You would not be then required to run here and there for oxygen. They will take that responsibility also,” it had said, adding that the government’s plan to add 12,000 beds depends on the availability of oxygen.
Surjitt Sahani
