The Supreme Court has taken suo motu cognisance of the abject poverty of an elderly woman and her visually challenged son in Odisha, directing the state government to provide all social security benefits and basic amenities.
A bench of Chief Justice of India Surya Kant and Justice V Mohana expressed concern over the duo's sustenance and dignified life, taking cognisance of media reports describing their plight.
The court directed the Odisha government to provide details of the monthly emoluments, housing, and other provisions under any Central or state scheme, as well as to ensure the visually impaired son, Japa Bhue, is provided a regular source of employment.
The court also directed the Odisha Legal Services Authority to coordinate with the district legal service authority and chief medical officer to provide immediate medical assistance and to furnish a report on the benefits extended to the family.
The court's orders will provide some respite to the harsh conditions of survival faced by the mother-son duo, and signal to all state governments to be vigilant of their social service purpose and to re-orient the welfare-oriented government to the needy citizens under various schemes and legislations.
