Introduction:

In a recent case before the Punjab & Haryana High Court, a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) filed by Sunaina, an advocate, has drawn attention to a shocking power failure at Rajindra Hospital, Patiala, one of the district’s premier healthcare establishments. The incident, which occurred on January 24, 2025, led to a power disruption at 11:44 AM. The power was eventually restored at 11:57 AM, after a delay of 13 minutes. During this time, the backup power system, though available, took two minutes to function as it required manual intervention to switch over from the main electric supply.

Arguments:

The petitioner pointed out the critical need for automatic switch-over systems in hospitals, especially given the potential life-threatening consequences of power failures, particularly for patients on life support. In response to the allegations, the court expressed shock over the power outage, noting that even a brief interruption in power supply could prove fatal in a hospital setting.

Judgement:

Chief Justice Sheel Nagu and Justice Sumeet Goel, hearing the matter, emphasized that it was not merely surprising, but alarming that such a lapse had occurred in a public healthcare institution. The bench specifically remarked on the fact that many public establishments are equipped with automatic switch-over systems, yet Rajindra Hospital was not. The court directed the Chief Secretary of the State of Punjab to file an affidavit explaining why hospitals were not similarly equipped with automatic switch-over mechanisms. The court’s concern was compounded by the fact that even after the initial failure, the backup system was manually activated, resulting in further delays. The bench further remarked that in modern times, it is essential for hospitals to have an automatic switch-over system in place, which would ensure that backup power is engaged instantly during any disruption in regular supply. The State counsel was unable to provide a satisfactory explanation as to why such a deficiency existed, with the court expressing dissatisfaction with the responses offered. The petitioner, appearing in person, further submitted that a similar power disruption had occurred recently on February 4, 2025, reinforcing the urgency of addressing this issue. The court adjourned the matter, listing it for further consideration on February 25, 2025, and ordered the Chief Secretary of Punjab to file a detailed affidavit addressing the issue of power outages and the lack of an automatic switch-over system in hospitals, while also providing details of other public establishments that have such systems in place. This case has brought into focus the critical importance of ensuring that hospitals are adequately equipped to handle power failures, given the direct impact such failures can have on patient safety and well-being. In a country like India, where hospitals cater to a vast population across both urban and rural areas, the need for reliable power backup systems is more pressing than ever. Hospitals must ensure that life-saving equipment and systems, such as ventilators, incubators, and other vital instruments, are operational at all times, especially during power outages. It is crucial that state governments take immediate steps to address the inadequacies in the existing infrastructure and ensure that all hospitals are equipped with automatic switch-over systems to prevent avoidable tragedies. The case serves as a reminder of the responsibility of public institutions, particularly healthcare establishments, to ensure that their operations are not jeopardized by avoidable failures such as power outages. It also underscores the importance of proactive planning and investment in infrastructure that guarantees uninterrupted services in hospitals, thereby safeguarding the lives of patients who rely on them for their well-being.