Retd HC judge BA Patil to probe Chamarajanagar Covid deaths

An order to this effect was issued on Wednesday by Dr Rajneesh Goel, Additional Chief Secretary, Home Department.

The order reads: “This commission will inquire into the circumstances and events leading to the deaths of Covid-19 patients in the District Hospital, Chamarajanagar, on 3/5/2021, reportedly due to scarcity of oxygen. Now, therefore, in exercise of the powers conferred by sub-section (1) of Section 3 of the Commission of Inquiry Act, 1952 (Central Act LX of 1952), the Government of Karnataka hereby appoints Hon’ble Justice Shri BA Patil, Retd Judge, High Court of Karnataka, as a one-man Commission of Inquiry.”

Statutory powers

The commission has been asked to submit its report within one month. The order states: “The Commission of Inquiry shall exercise all the powers under the Commission of Inquiry Act, 1952 and under the Code of Civil Procedure to conduct the inquiry into the above incidents. The Commission of Inquiry shall submit its report within one month.”

‘DCs to cooperate’

Dr Goel has directed all the officers concerned, including the Deputy Commissioners of Chamarajanagar and Mysuruu districts, to hand over immediately all requisite documents and material evidence to the Commissioner, Health and Family Welfare Department, for onward submission to the Enquiry Commission.

Probe office in Mysuru

As per the order, the office of the Commission shall be located in Mysuru. The Commissioner, Health and Family Welfare Department, shall make arrangements for the remuneration and allowances, office accommodation, mobility, staff, communication and other necessary infrastructure to conduct the inquiry.