The alarming reports of rising dengue cases and fatalities across Karnataka, the state’s High Court has taken proactive measures by registering a suo motu Public Interest Litigation (PIL) on the matter. Citing recent media coverage highlighting the severity of the dengue outbreak, the court has directed notices to key officials including the chief secretary, secretary to the health and family welfare department, and the BBMP chief commissioner. They are mandated to provide comprehensive details on the preventive and remedial actions implemented to combat the spread of dengue in Bengaluru and other affected districts, including rural areas, by July 23.
The move comes amidst mounting concerns over the state’s healthcare infrastructure’s ability to manage the surge in dengue cases. Reports from prominent media outlets on July 9, 2024, underscored the gravity of the situation, with Mahadevapura emerging as a focal point of the outbreak, contributing to 27% of reported cases. The BBMP acknowledged deficiencies in monitoring and response mechanisms, exacerbating public apprehensions.
Karnataka has recorded a significant spike in dengue infections, tallying 7,326 cases and seven deaths this year, including one fatality in Mysuru. Against this backdrop, the High Court emphasized the constitutional right to health and a safe environment under Article 21, stressing citizens’ entitlement to robust healthcare infrastructure and effective disease management protocols.
Advocate-general reassured the court of the state government’s commitment to addressing the public health emergency, pledging a comprehensive response to the PIL’s concerns. The division bench underscored the imperative for expert medical facilities and resilient infrastructure to mitigate the ongoing threat posed by the dengue epidemic. The court’s intervention signals a critical juncture in Karnataka’s public health strategy, highlighting the need for coordinated efforts between government agencies, healthcare providers, and local communities to contain and manage infectious disease outbreaks effectively.
