Writ seeks HC directives to set up “yellow zones” at private hospitals, clinics

A writ petition was filed with the High Court today seeking its directive to the authorities concerned to set up "yellow zones" at the entrance of every private hospital, clinic and diagnostic centre.

Human Rights and Peace for Bangladesh (HRPB), a rights organisation, filed the petition seeking the setting up of yellow zones for emergency facilities to provide treatment to all patients including those affected by Covid-19.

Advocate Manzill Murshid submitted the petition on behalf of HRPB through digital communication today.

The petitioner requested for a HC order on the government to supply necessary personal protective equipment (PPE) to the doctors, nurses and staff of the yellow zones who will conduct tests of emergency patients and will provide treatment to them during the pandemic.

In the petition, the rights body prayed to the High Court to issue a rule asking the authorities concerned to explain why they should not be directed to take necessary steps to ensure all kinds of treatments to all patients by private hospitals and clinics.

It also urged the High Court to direct the respondents to show cause why their failure to protect the people from coronavirus pandemic should not be declared illegal and unconstitutional.

The chairman of the advisory committee for prevention of infectious diseases, health secretary, additional secretary (hospitals) of the health ministry, director general of the directorate of health services and president and secretary of Bangladesh Private Clinics and Diagnostics Owners Association have been made respondents to the required rule.

Manzill Murshid said the officials concerned of the High Court will inform him when the court will hold virtual hearing of the petition.