Teesha –
The Kerala High Court on 3rd May, directed the Kerala government to include lawyers and their clerks in the priority list for COVID-19 vaccination.
The Bench of Justices A Muhamed Mustaque and Kauser Edappagath ordered the state government to amend the order dated June 2, and include Lawyers and Clerks in it. As per the bench Lawyers and Clerks are crucial part of the legal framework without whom dispensation of justice would not be possible.
Appearing for petitioner, Advocate Saiby jose Kidangoor argued that lawyers are duty bound to visit offices and meet clients even though the proceedings are made online.
Acknowledging the prayer, the court passed an order observing that the state government has been heedless to the plight of lawyers and clerks who are indispensable for the administration of justice.
Henceforth, the Bench ordered the government to include Lawyers and Clerks in priority list and the benefit may only be extended to the people engaged in practice.
Furthermore, Justice Mustaque reflected his concern about the senior citizens who are bedridden and remarked that some mechanism needs to be established to ensure their vaccination at home.
The case will be taken up again after 10 days.