KAMLESH CHANDRA LAL Vs. UNION OF INDIA

JUDGEMENT

(1.) From the submissions made, this Court is called upon to decide the following questions:-

(2.) The counsel on behalf of the petitioner has put forward before us the dilemma faced by individuals suffering from Leprosy in the State of Bihar. Counsel sets forth a staggering statistic- The State of Bihar has more than 11,000 cases. Leprosy patients result in a prevalence rate of 1.12 per 10,000 cases, accounting for 14% of total leprosy cases in the country.

(3.) During the incumbent Pandemic, individuals afflicted with Leprosy are particularly suffering because of their evident state of affairs. This mere fact testifies individuals suffering from the said curable disease were unable to avail the most basic amenities under the Public Distribution System (PDS) in districts of Bihar such as Patna, Darbhanga, Kishanganj, Chpara and East Champaran. The petitioner contends that the device intended to streamline the Public Distribution System has hindered access to food to some in the opposite effect. While some affected families opted for nominees within the family, the struggle continues for those who do not have a suitable member. In contrast, others are confused about nominating someone from within the family for various other reasons, including awareness and easy access.