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Malnutrition Crisis: Maharashtra Court Slams Govt Negligence
22 Nov
Summary
- Court criticizes Maharashtra's casual approach to infant malnutrition deaths.
- 65 infants died from malnutrition in Melghat, over 220 severely malnourished.
- Government departments must coordinate to end ongoing infant mortality.
The Bombay High Court expressed strong disapproval of the Maharashtra government's "casual" response to a severe malnutrition crisis in Melghat, Amravati District. Data indicates that 65 infants aged zero to six months have died from malnutrition in the region this year alone, with over 220 others classified as severely acute malnourished (SAM), facing a high mortality risk.
Despite decades of government interventions, Melghat, home to Korku tribal communities, continues to grapple with malnutrition. Challenges include food scarcity, poor healthcare access, and anaemia. Officials cite various underlying causes for infant deaths, but the court emphasizes the need for a more robust and accountable approach from state and union governments.
Experts stress that eradicating malnutrition requires a comprehensive strategy. This includes strengthening the healthcare system, ensuring timely nutrition for mothers and children, training community health workers, and improving infrastructure. The court has ordered key government departments to submit an action report by November 24.
