The Supreme Court has intervened to assist a visually-impaired man and his elderly mother in Odisha who are living in extreme poverty. On Tuesday, the court directed the state government to provide all social security benefits and essential amenities to Japa Bhue, who has been visually impaired since birth, and his 80-year-old mother, Radhika Bhue.
Suo Motu Cognizance
A bench led by Chief Justice of India Surya Kant took suo motu notice of media reports highlighting the dire condition of the mother-son duo. The bench, also comprising Justice V Mohana, instructed the Odisha government to ensure social security for the family. Following the death of Japa's father, the family's financial situation worsened significantly. They have been living in a dilapidated structure with an asbestos roof and cracked walls.
Court's Directives
The court sought a compliance report from the Odisha government regarding the relief and welfare measures provided. When the state government's counsel mentioned that a house under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Grameen) had been allotted to Radhika Bhue and separate dwelling units sanctioned for Japa's brothers, the bench emphasized the larger issue of ensuring adequate support for a dignified life.
Chief Justice Kant stated, “We are concerned with whether a life with dignity can be granted to Smt. Bhue.” The court directed the state to file an affidavit through an officer not below the rank of Chief Secretary, detailing whether Radhika Bhue receives an old-age pension and other senior citizen benefits, and whether Japa Bhue receives a disability pension and other social security benefits for persons with disabilities.
Basic Amenities and Legal Aid
The Supreme Court ordered that all basic amenities necessary for a dignified life be made available to the mother and son. It also directed the Odisha State Legal Services Authority (OSLSA) to visit the family, coordinate with district administration and health authorities, and ensure immediate medical help. The Member Secretary of OSLSA was instructed to personally interact with the Bhues and make all necessary arrangements.
Additionally, the bench ordered OSLSA to engage Japa Bhue as a paralegal volunteer to raise awareness among differently-abled individuals about their legal rights and welfare schemes. He is to receive an honorarium not less than the minimum wages notified by the Odisha government.
