Delhi High Court orders inspection of washrooms in district courts

New Delhi: The Delhi High Court on Saturday has mandated an inspection of washroom facilities across all district courts in the city to assess hygiene, functionality, and safety.
This decision underscores the need for clean and secure toilets, especially for women, as a fundamental necessity.
The court directed Principal District and Sessions Judges to oversee these inspections within their jurisdictions, ensuring that both male and female washrooms are adequately evaluated. Additionally, the Delhi government’s Public Works Department (PWD) was instructed to implement corrective measures to restore all washroom facilities to a functional and sanitary state.
Justice Sanjeev Narula emphasized the importance of these facilities, stating, “Access to clean, functional, and secure washroom facilities is a basic necessity, especially for women members of the Bar.” He highlighted the need to protect the safety, privacy, and health of female lawyers and urged all parties involved to treat this issue with the seriousness it deserves.
Inspections will focus on hygiene and safety, with a compliance report detailing necessary repairs or improvements due in court within two weeks. This order came in response to a petition from a woman lawyer who highlighted the unsanitary conditions in the washrooms at the Saket district court, particularly those designated for women. The court reviewed photographs submitted by the petitioner, revealing alarming neglect and unsanitary conditions. The petitioner had previously approached the relevant authorities about critical issues, including non-functional toilet seats, inadequate water supply, and broken or insecure washroom doors. The court acknowledged that these conditions are particularly troubling for women lawyers, for whom privacy and safety are paramount.
Despite the petitioner’s efforts, no corrective action had been taken by the authorities, prompting the court to stress that the unhygienic conditions jeopardize the safety and health of women using these facilities. “The failure to provide clean, functional, and safe washrooms in such an essential environment demands immediate attention from all stakeholders,” the court asserted.
Recognizing the gravity of the situation, the judge appointed a court commissioner to conduct a thorough inspection of women’s washrooms in all district courts.
The commissioner will prepare a comprehensive report detailing the condition of these facilities, identifying deficiencies, and including photographic evidence of findings. This report is expected to be submitted to the court by December 5, coinciding with the next hearing date.