High Court Expresses Strong Displeasure Over Dilapidated Hostel Condition

Says Government Is Taking Court Orders Lightly; Directs Immediate Compliance

Ranchi: The Jharkhand High Court on Wednesday expressed serious dissatisfaction over the deteriorated and unsafe condition of the hostel at Ranchi District School (CM School of Excellence). A division bench of Chief Justice Tarlok Singh Chauhan and Justice Rajesh Shankar criticized the government, stating that “the government is taking the court’s directions lightly. Show seriousness and comply with the order.”

The court has directed the state government to rectify the hostel’s condition and submit a detailed report by 26 November.

Amicus Curiae Presents Photographs Showing Poor Condition

During the hearing, the amicus curiae presented photographs of the hostel, informing the court that:

Despite earlier directions, no repair work has been initiated.
There is a heap of garbage accumulated in front of the hostel.
The government misled the court by submitting an affidavit claiming that repair work had begun, although no such work is visible on the ground.

Government Claims Approval of ₹50 Lakh for Repairs; Court Not Convinced

In the previous hearing, the government had informed the court that:

An amount of ₹50 lakh had been sanctioned for hostel repair.
Tender for the work had already been issued.
The repair work would be completed within three months.

However, due to the absence of any actual progress, the court expressed dissatisfaction with the government’s explanation.

High Court Took Suo Motu Cognizance Based on Media Report

The High Court had earlier taken suo motu cognizance following a media report which highlighted that:

The building and hostel of the CM School of Excellence are in extremely dilapidated condition.
Dampness, dirt, and damaged walls are widespread.
Ceilings of several rooms are broken, with plaster falling off at many places.
Nearly 100 students residing in the hostel are compelled to study and live under life-threatening conditions every day.