Bombay High Court Takes Suo Moto Action on Alarming Healthcare Deficiencies in Tribal Maharashtra

Court Directs State to Provide Data on Implementation of Health Schemes in Remote Areas After Disturbing Reports Surface

The Aurangabad Bench of the Bombay High Court has taken Suo Moto cognizance of a news report highlighting severe deficiencies in healthcare facilities for pregnant women in tribal and hilly regions of Maharashtra. In a striking judgment delivered on December 8, 2025, the Court underscored the state's obligation to ensure that healthcare services are accessible to all citizens, especially vulnerable groups like women and children.

The Court's intervention follows a disturbing report in the Daily Divya Marathi Newspaper, which depicted the grim realities faced by pregnant women in these regions. Despite the Maharashtra government's expenditure of approximately Rs. 771 crores on healthcare schemes over the past year and a half, services have failed to reach many remote areas. The report detailed shocking practices, including the use of blades to cut umbilical cords and reliance on local liquor to manage labor pains.

Presiding over the case, Justices Vibha Kankanwadi and Hiten S. Venegavkar expressed grave concerns over the ineffective implementation of health schemes in tribal areas, where traditional and unsafe methods are still prevalent. The Court emphasized that the success of government schemes cannot be claimed until they effectively reach every corner and benefit every citizen.

The learned Government Pleader, Mr. A.B. Girase, acknowledged the issues, admitting that certain logistical problems have hindered the reach of these schemes to tribal populations, not only in Nandurbar District but also in regions such as Kinwat in Nanded District.

To address the issue comprehensively, the Court has directed the Government Pleader to submit detailed data and affidavits from relevant government officials by December 19, 2025. The Court has also appointed Advocate Ms. Geeta Deshpande as Amicus Curiae to study the matter thoroughly and assist in drafting a formal petition for further judicial consideration.

The order highlights the critical role of Asha workers and government-appointed personnel in ensuring pregnant women receive necessary guidance on health precautions, dietary needs, and regular check-ups. The failure to provide such services in tribal areas signifies not only the failure of the schemes but also a lapse in the government's duty to its citizens.

The Court has slated the matter for further consideration on December 19, 2025, by which time it expects comprehensive data and insights to facilitate a detailed order.

Bottom Line:

Public Interest Litigation - Suo Moto cognizance taken by the Court regarding the lack of healthcare facilities for pregnant women in tribal and hilly areas in Maharashtra, despite significant government expenditure on health schemes. The Court emphasizes the government's duty to ensure health services reach every citizen, with special focus on women and children.

Statutory provision(s): Suo Moto Public Interest Litigation, Government duty to provide healthcare, Role of Amicus Curiae.

Registrar (Judicial), High Court of Bombay v. State of Maharashtra, (Bombay)(Aurangabad Bench)(DB) : Law Finder Doc Id # 2822475