Justice Subramonium Prasad emphasised that the widow is eligible for the “Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Package: Insurance scheme for health workers fighting COVID-19” announced by the Union Government
The Delhi High Court has ordered the Union Government, Director General of Health Services, and Medical Superintendent of Safdarjung Hospital to release Rs. 50 lakhs to the widow of a security guard who lost his life on duty during the COVID-19 pandemic while working at the government hospital.
Justice Subramonium Prasad emphasised that the widow is eligible for the “Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Package: Insurance scheme for health workers fighting COVID-19” announced by the Union Government. The court rejected a narrow interpretation of the scheme that excluded the deceased due to his non-direct involvement with COVID-19 patients.
The court stressed that the scheme aimed to provide immediate relief to those protecting lives during the pandemic and noted the crucial role played by security guards and paramedical staff in ensuring hospital safety and guiding patients. The widow had sought benefits from both the Central and Delhi Government schemes for ex-gratia compensation.
The court acknowledged a shift in the Delhi Government’s stance and directed the Medical Superintendent of Safdarjung Hospital to provide necessary documents to the Delhi Government for further consideration.
The court urged a sympathetic examination of the deceased’s case, considering his sacrifice while on duty during the pandemic.
