Delhi High Court directs PWD to improve washrooms in capital's district courts

The Delhi High Court recently directed the Public Works Department (PWD) and other authorities to restore all washroom facilities in the Saket District Court to "a functional and sanitary condition" [Smita Kumari Rajgarhia v. Government of NCT of Delhi].

The issue had been brought to the Court's attention in a plea filed by Advocate Smita Kumari Rajgarhia, who pointed out the deplorable and unhygienic conditions of washroom facilities in the lawyers chamber block of the Saket District Court, particularly those of the women's washrooms.

Taking serious note of the issue, Justice Sanjeev Narula ordered,

"The unhygienic conditions in the washrooms directly affects the safety and health of the female lawyers using these facilities. The failure to provide clean, functional, and safe washrooms—particularly in an environment as vital as the District Courts—demands immediate attention of all stakeholders. Thus, necessary steps must be taken by the Respondents to rectify the current situation and ensure that these facilities meet a basic standard of hygiene."

The Court noted that a representation made by Rajgarhia in this regard highlighted critical issues that include non-functional toilet seats, the absence of adequate water supply and the state of the washroom doors that are either broken or lack proper locking mechanisms.

Noting the gravity of the situation, the Court appointed Advocate Harshita Nathrani as court commissioner to inspect the women's washrooms at the Saket court as well as other district courts.

It directed her to document the conditions of the washrooms, identify the deficiencies, provide photographic evidence of her findings and file a report on the same.

It further directed the PWD to take corrective measures to ensure that all male and female washroom facilities are restored to a functional and sanitary condition.

"A compliance report detailing the actions taken, including the restoration of water supply and repair of washroom doors, shall be submitted within a period of two weeks from today. Furthermore, PWD is directed to put in place a regular maintenance schedule to prevent future deterioration of these essential facilities," the order stated.

Moreover, the Court went on to direct all Principal District and Sessions Judges in Delhi to inspect washrooms in their respective courts (for both men and women) to ensure their functionality, hygiene, and safety. It directed that a compliance report in this regard shall be submitted before it within two weeks.

"This Court reiterates that access to clean, functional, and secure washroom facilities is a basic necessity, especially for female members of the Bar. The safety, privacy, and health of female lawyers must be safeguarded, and the Respondents are expected to treat this matter with the seriousness it warrants. The PWD and other civic agencies shall extend full cooperation and coordinate with other stakeholders to ensure compliance of this order."

Rajgarhia appeared in person along with Advocates Narendra Sharma and Kamal Kant Sharma.

Additional Standing Counsel Sameer Vashisht and Advocate Harshita Nathrani represented the Delhi government.

[Read Order]