Staff Correspondent

The High Court yesterday directed the health secretary to conduct an inquiry into the reported allegations against the hospitals concerned of refusing to provide treatment to the patients during coronavirus pandemic.The government has also been directed to fix the retail and refilling prices of oxygen cylinders in 10 working days.

The health secretary was ordered to submit the report to the HC by July 21.

During a virtual hearing on five writ petitions, the court asked Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) to take steps so that patients deprived of treatment can lodge complaints to the office concerned through email.

It asked authorities to take steps so that patients suffering from serious diseases like cancer and kidney problems are tested for Covid-19, test reports are provided within 36 to 48 hours and their treatments are ensured at the hospitals concerned.