The Bombay High Court invoked Article 21 of the Indian Constitution on Thursday, directing the Civil Surgeon of Jalna to examine the health condition of Maratha quota activist Manoj Jarange Patil on a priority basis. Patil has been on a hunger strike since February 10, demanding reservation for his community. The court expressed concern over Patil’s deteriorating health, stating that immediate intervention by medical professionals is necessary. Maharashtra Advocate General Birendra Saraf emphasized the state’s responsibility to protect Patil’s life and care for his health, stating that further deterioration could lead to a law and order situation. The court expects cooperation between Patil and the civil surgeon during the medical check-up and scheduled the next hearing for February 21.
Patil’s health condition has become a matter of urgency, as he continues his hunger strike in protest of the Maratha quota issue. Concerns were raised about Patil’s deteriorating health, prompting the Bombay High Court to intervene. The court invoked Article 21 of the Indian Constitution, highlighting the importance of protecting the activist’s right to life. Observing photographs that indicated Patil’s unstable health, the court emphasized the need for immediate attention from medical professionals.
Maharashtra Advocate General Birendra Saraf addressed the court, expressing the state’s concerns regarding the potential consequences of Patil’s declining health. Saraf stressed the responsibility to protect Patil’s life and maintain his well-being to avoid any law and order issues. In response, the state has formed a team of doctors and arranged an ambulance to provide urgent medical care. A report from the Collector of Jalna revealed that Patil had refused to undergo a medical examination on multiple occasions, except for receiving intravenous fluids on February 14, 2024.
Petitioner Gunratan Sadavarte filed a petition against the protest but also emphasized the importance of ensuring proper medical care for Patil to prevent further deterioration of his health. However, Patil’s counsel, Ramesh Dube-Patil, mentioned that the activist was following his own doctor’s advice from Aurangabad. When questioned about the responsibility for Patil’s health, Dube-Patil initially suggested that the activist was unable to communicate, but later clarified that he was conveying the instructions of Patil’s supporters.
After careful consideration, the high court concluded that Patil was not in a position to make decisions about his own health. It appears that his well-being is being looked after by his supporters or well-wishers, who are providing instructions to his advocate. The court expects Patil’s doctor, Dr. Vinod Chavare, to assist during the medical check-up, and it is crucial for Patil to cooperate with the civil surgeon.
The next hearing is scheduled for February 21, where the court will review the examination conducted by the Jalna civil surgeon and the team of doctors. The outcome of the examination will play a significant role in determining the appropriate course of action regarding Patil’s health and the ongoing protest for Maratha reservation.
It is essential to prioritize the welfare of individuals like Manoj Jarange Patil, whose health is at risk due to their acts of protest. The Bombay High Court’s invocation of Article 21 reflects the importance of preserving the right to life and underscores the responsibility of the state to provide appropriate medical care. As the case unfolds, the court’s decision will have far-reaching implications for both Patil and the larger issue of Maratha reservation in Maharashtra.
