Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Sunday in a virtual press meet stated that there’s no shortage of oxygen in any private or public hospital in UP and that actions would be taken under National Security Act for spreading rumors on social media.
He further issued instructions on keeping a check on people spreading rumours and look into the intentions by duly investigating on the particular rumour.
In the light of the above instructions, Activist Saket Gokhale moved to Allahabad High Court seeking to stop the UP government from taking coercive measures against people appealing for medical assistance through social media.
He further requested for protection of independent volunteers who are helping Covid-19 patients and families through the medium of social media.
The plea stated that filing of Criminal cases against families in critical conditions seeking for help through social media is a gross misuse of powers and can be considered an illegal coercive action just to maintain the image of government and create a fake impression. He argues, that such actions take away the fundamental right to life and liberty under Article 21 and the right to freedom of expression under Article 19 of the Indian Constitution.
Threatening families seeking for help and reaching forward for leads to save their family members in matters of life and death is a grave violation by the State. Allahabad High Court in another incidence recently took note of the acute shortage of medical oxygen in the State and had sought a report on the same.
The court observed, “If even after seven decades of our attaining freedom with so many heavy industries set up, we are not able to provide oxygen to our citizens, it’s a matter of shame”.
Lawcutor 