Unhygienic Court Toilets Violate Fundamental Rights of Judges, Lawyers, and Litigants: Supreme Court Told

In a striking revelation before the Supreme Court of India, several High Courts have submitted status reports highlighting the deplorable sanitation and hygiene conditions in court complexes across the country. The reports indicate that poor maintenance of toilets in judicial premises amounts to a violation of the fundamental rights and dignity of judges, lawyers, and litigants.

 

High Courts Raise Alarming Concerns

According to the status reports, many district and subordinate courts are functioning in extremely unhygienic conditions, with damaged toilets, inadequate water supply, and poor waste management. The situation, as described, not only compromises health but also undermines the right to a clean and dignified environment, which is protected under Article 21 of the Constitution of India.

 

The reports further stated that the problem is most severe in rural and semi-urban districts where court infrastructure has not kept pace with rising caseloads and public usage. Despite repeated directives, sanitation and maintenance standards in many court premises remain far below acceptable levels.

 

Violation of Dignity and Rights

Legal experts have argued that unhygienic facilities in courts violate the fundamental right to health, dignity, and equal access to justice. Judges and advocates working in these environments, as well as litigants who spend long hours in court, face daily hardships due to the lack of clean toilets, safe drinking water, and basic amenities.

 

The Supreme Court, while examining the reports, observed that the judiciary must set an example in upholding public welfare standards. Poor hygiene in court complexes not only affects the efficiency of judicial work but also sends a negative message about the state of civic responsibility within justice institutions.

 

Crèche and Childcare Facilities Also Neglected

In addition to poor sanitation, the reports drew attention to the absence of crèche and childcare facilities in most court premises. This poses particular challenges for female judges, lawyers, and court staff who often struggle to balance professional duties with childcare responsibilities.

 

The Supreme Court noted that proper crèche facilities are essential for ensuring gender equality and work-life balance in judicial workplaces. It emphasized that all court complexes — especially those with women judges and advocates — must be equipped with adequate childcare, sanitation, and hygiene infrastructure.

 

Call for Immediate Reforms

The apex court has sought comprehensive action plans from state governments and High Courts to address these deficiencies. It has urged that modernization of judicial infrastructure — including clean restrooms, accessibility ramps, drinking water stations, and digital facilities — be treated as an urgent constitutional priority.

 

Legal commentators believe this step could trigger a nationwide judicial infrastructure reform, ensuring that courts become spaces that truly reflect the principles of justice, dignity, and human rights they are meant to uphold.