Bombay High Court Requests Government Response on SSPE Support Policy
HC seeks Centre’s response to PIL seeking policy for fatal SSPE disorder
Hindustan Times
Image: Hindustan Times
The Bombay High Court has asked India's Ministry of Health to respond to a public interest litigation seeking a support policy for Subacute Sclerosing Panencephalitis (SSPE) patients, a rare disease with a 95% fatality rate. The petitioner, Mahadu Belkar, is advocating for research funding and financial assistance for affected families.
- 01The Bombay High Court is seeking a response from the central government regarding a welfare policy for SSPE patients.
- 02SSPE is a rare neurodegenerative disease with a high fatality rate, leading to severe health complications.
- 03The petitioner, Mahadu Belkar, lost his son to SSPE and is advocating for better support and research.
- 04Families of SSPE patients report significant financial burdens due to treatment costs.
- 05The court has given the government four weeks to file a response to the petition.
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The Bombay High Court in Mumbai has directed the Indian Ministry of Health and Family Welfare to respond to a public interest litigation (PIL) concerning Subacute Sclerosing Panencephalitis (SSPE), a rare neurodegenerative disease with a 95% fatality rate. The PIL, filed by Mahadu Belkar, highlights the urgent need for a welfare and support policy for SSPE patients, who suffer severe health complications including loss of vision, movement, and ultimately, coma. Belkar's son recently passed away after battling the disease for over three years, prompting him to seek governmental support for research and financial assistance for affected families. Currently, there are 62 known SSPE cases in Maharashtra and over 500 nationwide, with families facing monthly treatment costs exceeding ₹55,000 (approximately $660 USD). The court has given the government a deadline of four weeks to file a response, while families express their desperation, with some considering euthanasia as an option due to the lack of support.
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The outcome of this litigation could lead to improved support and resources for families affected by SSPE, potentially alleviating their financial burdens and enhancing the quality of care for patients.
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