SOCIAL JURIST Vs. GOVERNMENT OF NCT OF DELHI

JUDGEMENT

(1.) The Government of India (GOI) and the Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi (Government of NCT of Delhi) have been allotting land to various hospitals free of cost or on concessional rates. It is estimated by Qureshi Committee that about 400 hospitals were given land either free of cost or on concessional rates with the condition that 25% of the total number of beds in Indoor Patient Department (IPD) and 40% of the total number of patients in Outdoor Patient Department (OPD) shall be treated free of charge.

(2.) It is alleged by the petitioner that the aforesaid condition has been observed in breach by most of the hospitals. Despite the fact that the condition was not being complied with, the authorities have not taken any action against the institutions to whom land has been given free of charge or on concessional basis. The Qureshi Committee with regard to free treatment facilities to the poor and the needy by these hospitals has made certain recommendations.

(3.) According to learned Counsel for the respondent, the recommendations of Qureshi Committee have been considered by a high powered committee on 23.10.2002. In support of her submission, the learned Counsel has placed before us minutes of the meeting of the high powered committee held on 23.10.2002. The meeting on 23rd October, 2002 was chaired by the Chief Secretary, Government of NCT of Delhi.