In a decisive move to address delays, the Delhi High Court has directed the state government to expedite the process of filling vacancies in the State Mental Health Authority and establish District Mental Health Review Boards as mandated under the Mental Healthcare Act, 2017.
The Court, presided over by Acting Chief Justice Vibhu Bakhru and Justice Tushar Rao Gedela, was responding to petitions emphasizing the government’s inaction in implementing key provisions of the Act. Petitioners argued that the prolonged delay in constituting these bodies had hindered the rollout of critical mental health measures.
The Delhi government informed the Court that ex-officio members of the Authority had been notified last month and assured that the appointment of non-official members would be completed shortly. Acknowledging these submissions, the Court directed the government to prioritize filling the remaining posts and forming the review boards promptly.
The judges emphasized that upcoming Delhi Assembly elections and the associated Model Code of Conduct must not obstruct this process. They instructed the government to proceed without delay, ensuring that the authority and review boards are functional within a reasonable timeframe.
The Court also granted the petitioners the right to revive their case should the government fail to meet these deadlines, maintaining pressure on the administration to adhere to its obligations.
This order represents a significant push for accountability, reinforcing the critical need to prioritize mental health infrastructure in the state.
