New Delhi: The Supreme Court has directed the Director of AIIMS Jammu to constitute a special medical board to assess the health condition of former High Court Bar Association, Kashmir (KCBA) President Mian Abdul Qayoom, who is facing prosecution under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA).
A Bench comprising Justices M.M. Sundresh and N.K. Singh clarified that it was not inclined to interfere with the case on merits. However, taking note of the medical concerns raised on behalf of the 77-year-old petitioner, the Court confined its consideration solely to his health condition.
During the hearing, the Additional Solicitor General submitted that Qayoom has been undergoing periodic medical examinations and is receiving appropriate treatment at Government Medical College, Jammu. It was stated that his condition is stable and that necessary medical care is being provided as required.
Senior Advocate S. Muralidhar, appearing for Qayoom, informed the Court that the petitioner has only one functioning kidney and a heart pacemaker. He urged the Bench to consider palliative care in view of Qayoom’s advanced age and medical history.
In its order, the Court made it clear that no relief on merits would be granted. For the limited purpose of evaluating his medical condition, it directed AIIMS Jammu to constitute a special medical team to examine him.
The medical board has been asked to assess whether palliative care is required and to specify the facilities available in Jammu. It must also indicate whether there is any need to shift the petitioner to Delhi for further treatment.
The Court directed that the medical report be submitted within three weeks. The matter has been listed for further hearing on March 24.
