The Delhi High Court has instructed the Indian Professional Nurses Association (IPNA) to submit a representation to the Secretary of the Indian Nursing Council (INC).
The Court has also directed the Council to examine and decide on the representation within a specified timeframe, with particular attention to the necessity of establishing a grievance redressal mechanism.
This direction arose from a public interest litigation filed by IPNA, which raised concerns that the Indian Nursing Council lacks an adequate mechanism to address complaints from nursing professionals. The petition also alleged that, despite circulars issued in August and September 2011 prohibiting service bonds for students, some institutions continue to enforce such practices.
The case was heard by a Bench consisting of Chief Justice Devendra Kumar Upadhyaya and Justice Tejas Karia. Advocate Joe Sebastian represented the petitioner, while Advocate V.S.R. Krishna appeared for respondent No. 2.
During the hearing, counsel for the respondent stated that the Indian Nursing Council has been taking steps to ensure compliance with its circulars and expects institutions to abide by them.
After considering the submissions, the Court observed that the concerns raised could be addressed through a formal representation. It directed the petitioner to file a detailed representation within two weeks, including all relevant materials.
The Court further mandated that the competent authority of the Indian Nursing Council must consider the representation and reach an appropriate decision within two months. While doing so, the Council should assess the need for establishing an effective grievance redressal mechanism and communicate its decisions to complainants.
Following these directions, the High Court disposed of the petition.