Supreme Court Advocate Attacked by Monkeys, Exposes Gaps in Campus Medical Facilities

Advocate S Selvakumari, a permanent member of the Supreme Court Bar Association, faced a distressing experience on August 22, 2024, when she was attacked by a group of monkeys while entering the Supreme Court premises through Gate No. G, near the museum. The unexpected assault left her with a bite wound on her right thigh.

Seeking immediate medical attention, Selvakumari rushed to the Supreme Court's first aid clinic, only to discover that the dispensary was undergoing renovation. With no alternative, her friends took her to the polyclinic located near the Registrar's Court. Unfortunately, the polyclinic lacked basic medical supplies, and the staff could only clean the wound, advising her to seek further treatment at Ram Manohar Lohia (RML) Hospital.

Selvakumari expressed frustration and concern over the lack of basic medical facilities and preventive measures against such incidents on the Supreme Court campus.

She highlighted the absence of:

1. Functional medical facilities: The dispensary was under renovation, and the polyclinic lacked essential medicines.

2. Safety measures: No personnel were stationed outside the gate area to prevent or respond to the monkey attack.

3. Emergency preparedness: The lack of basic first aid medicines and equipment in both the dispensary and polyclinic.

Selvakumari's ordeal continued as she visited the Delhi High Court dispensary for a tetanus injection and later received additional injections at RML Hospital.

She experienced fever and mental trauma, emphasizing the need for:

• Adequate medical facilities and supplies.

• Effective safety measures to prevent animal attacks.

• Emergency preparedness and response protocols.

This incident raised concerns about the Supreme Court's infrastructure and preparedness to handle emergencies, highlighting the need for:

1. Renovation completion and ensuring functional medical facilities.

2. Implementing safety measures, such as monkey repellents or personnel stationed at gate areas.

3. Stocking basic medical supplies and equipment in clinics.

4. Establishing emergency response protocols.

(Input from various sources)

(Rehash/Vaishnavi Dalvi/MSM)