Encephalitis deaths in Bihar: SC directs state govt to file affidavit within 7 days
Encephalitis deaths in Bihar: SC directs state govt to file affidavit within 7 days
New Delhi, June 24 (HS): Hearing a petition regarding Encephalitis deaths in Bihar, the Supreme Court today directed the state government to file an affidavit within seven days on the adequacy of medical facilities, nutrition, sanitation and the hygiene conditions in the state.
The Apex Court issued a notice to the state government and Centre seeking explanation on death of children in Muzaffarpur due to Acute Encephalitis Syndrome (AES).
Contrary to the claim by Bihar government that it is taking all necessary steps to control the outbreak of AES in Muzaffarpur, the real situation tells a different story.
It may be recalled that Bhojpuri film star and BJP leader Khesari Lal Yadav, who had unsuccessfully contested the Lok Sabha elections from Azamgarh against Akhilesh Yadav was recently forced to make a hasty retreat from SK Memorial government hospital at Muzaffarpur.
Chief Minister Nitish Kumar too was greeted by the hostile parents and their attendants who complained of lack of facilities, non-supply of medicines, absence of drinking water facilities in the wards, where their children were admitted.
The death toll rose to 160 on Thursday with 119 casualties in SK Memorial Hospital alone.
Encephalitis deaths have been reported from Vaishali, Samastipur, Sheohar, East Champaran, Begusarai and Sitamarhi districts.
In 2012, 114 children had died at Muzaffarpur. AES (acute encephalitis syndrome) deaths are taking place in Muzaffarpur for the last 20 years.
Year Casualties
2012 89
2013 35
2014 117
2015 15
2016 06
2017 18
2018 12
2019 160 till date
