Guwahati, May 26: Guwahati High Court has sought a written reply from the Assam government on the Covid-19 situation in the tea estates of the state before May 31.

Many workers and staff of the tea garden were infected in the second wave of Covid-19.

The garden management has an open isolation centre for the workers in the tea estate.

Anjan Nagg has filed a PIL. Chief Justice Sudhanshu Dhulia and Justice Manash Ranjan Pathak stated “Nevertheless we want a written reply from the state, which must come on record before the next date. As far the Mobile Medical Units (MMU) and their use in these tea gardens is concerned, we have absolutely no doubt that since the Government already have the resources, these Mobile Medical Units must be put in use for testing and other purposes in the Tea Gardens as well, if not already being done. The Government in the counter affidavit must also show as to the test being done and what kind of test is being done, for determination of COVID-19 infection.”

A. Phukan learned counsel for the petitioner. Also heard R.K.D. Choudhury, learned Assistant Solicitor General of India and D. Saikia, learned Advocate General, Assam.

This PIL addresses issues relating to the present situation under the Covid-19 pandemic in the Tea Gardens of Assam.

There are about 800 tea Gardens and 434 Tea Estates in Assam. The condition of workers in these Tea Gardens is an issue that has been raised before this Court.