Shocking state of affairs: Supreme Court expresses disappointment over relaxation in Covid-19 norms by Kerala government

The Supreme Court today expressed its disappointment over the Kerala government’s decision to allow a three-day relaxation in Covid-19 restrictions in Kerala ahead of Bakrid festival, stating that granting such relaxation by bowing to traders’ pressure shows a “shocking state of affairs” and such a step was “wholly uncalled for”.

The bench did not quash the Kerala government notification granting such relaxation stating that "There is no point. The horse has already bolted. We are not quashing the notification." However, the bench added that "pressure groups of all kinds, religious or otherwise, cannot in any manner, interfere with this most precious Fundamental Right of all the citizens of India. We may also indicate that if as a result of the Notification dated 17.07.2021, any untoward spread in the Covid-19 disease takes place, any member of the public may bring this to the notice of this Court, after which this Court will take necessary action against those who are responsible".

The bench comprising Justices RF Nariman and BR Gavai directed the Kerala government to pay heed to Article 21 read with Article 144 of the Constitution of India and to follow the orders passed in the Kanwar Yatra case.”

Also Read: The health of citizens of India and the right to life is paramount: Supreme Court asks UP government to reconsider its decision to allow Kanwar Yatra.

On Monday, the Supreme Court had asked the Kerala government to file its response to the plea against the relaxation of Covid-19 restrictions in the state announced by the Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on July 17 in view of Bakrid.

The Kerala government cited the miseries caused to traders who were expecting Bakrid sales to alleviate their economic problems as the reason behind its decision to grant relaxation in Covid-19 restrictions.

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