Patna: The Patna High Court has sought further details on biomedical waste disposal practices in government and private hospitals across Bihar, as proceedings in a public interest litigation over alleged violations of waste management rules were adjourned.
A division bench headed by Chief Justice V. Kameshwar Rao is hearing the petition concerning the improper disposal of hospital waste and its potential impact on public health and the environment.
During an earlier hearing, the state government had informed the court that work related to biomedical waste management was being carried out in almost all districts in accordance with the applicable law.
Only 10 Districts Submitted Reports, Petitioner Tells Court
Petitioner Vikas Chandra, popularly known as Guddu Baba, told the court that reports had been received from only 10 districts following its earlier directions. He also stated that the Bihar State Pollution Control Board had provided details of the action taken but had not filed a formal affidavit.
The state government did not submit a report at the latest hearing, according to the petitioner.
Alleged Violations Raise Public Health Concerns
Guddu Baba alleged that several small and large hospitals and nursing homes across Bihar were openly violating biomedical waste disposal rules.
He argued that improper disposal of hospital waste could contribute to environmental pollution and pose risks to public health. Biomedical waste that is not segregated, treated and disposed of appropriately can expose healthcare workers, waste handlers and the wider community to health hazards.
The court has been examining what action authorities have taken against healthcare facilities allegedly failing to comply with the prescribed rules.
District Magistrates and Pollution Board Asked to File Affidavits
During the previous hearing, the High Court had directed district magistrates to submit reports on action taken against hospitals violating waste disposal requirements.
The Bihar State Pollution Control Board was also asked to provide details of hospitals issued notices and the subsequent action taken against them.
The court had directed the remaining districts and the pollution control board to file affidavits within two weeks.
Next Hearing on November 20
The matter is scheduled to come up for hearing again on November 20, 2026. The reports and affidavits sought by the court are expected to provide further details on compliance with biomedical waste management rules and enforcement action across Bihar.
