Highlights
- Petition filed in High Court seeking closure of schools amid measles outbreaks
- 47 children reportedly died due to measles across the country
- Call for an independent high-level investigation committee
- Government asked to submit a detailed report on vaccination and response
- Urgent nationwide vaccination program demanded
Writ Filed Over Measles Outbreak
On Thursday (April 2), lawyer Latif Jahan Purnima filed the petition in the High Court, naming relevant government authorities including the Health Ministry as respondents. The petition seeks urgent court intervention to address the rising public health concern.
Call for School Closure
The writ requests the court to order authorities to keep schools closed until the measles outbreak is brought under control. It argues that continuing classes without proper preventive measures increases the risk of infection among children.
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Demand for Detailed Government Report
The petition also asks the court to direct the government to submit a comprehensive report including:
- Number of deaths
- Infection rate
- Vaccination coverage
- Availability of vaccines
- Steps taken to control the outbreak
47 Child Deaths Trigger Concern
According to the petition, at least 47 children have died due to measles recently, raising serious concerns about public health preparedness. It also questions why timely measures were not taken to prevent the spread.
Demand for Independent Investigation
The petitioner has called for a full, independent, and time-bound investigation to identify:
- Failures in vaccination coverage
- Shortage of vaccines
- Delays in preventive action
Constitutional Rights Raised
The petition claims that negligence in ensuring vaccination and healthcare services violates constitutional rights, including:
- Equality before law
- Right to protection of life
- Right to personal liberty
Urgent Vaccination Program Requested
The court has been urged to direct authorities to immediately launch a nationwide emergency vaccination campaign and ensure:
- Adequate vaccine supply
- Sufficient syringes and logistics
- Efficient healthcare response
The High Court petition highlights serious gaps in Bangladesh’s response to the measles outbreak. With rising child deaths and concerns over public safety, the case now puts pressure on authorities to take immediate and effective action.
Source: Channel 24
