The Gauhati High Court has passed an interim direction stating that the salaries of government employees should not be stopped for the reason of not having been vaccinated and that no fees should be charged from them for the purpose of testing.

The division bench comprising of Justice Songkhupchung Serto and Justice S. Hukato Swu was dealing with a PIL challenging order issued by the State Government dated 17th July 2021 regarding attendance in office and requirement for vaccination for employees and staff in Nagaland Civil Secretariat and Directorates.

Forming a prima facie opinion that the impugned order is not in agreement with the earlier orders passed by the Court while dealing with covid 19 PIL, the Court issued notice while directing thus:

"Till the returnable date, fees should not be charged for testing from Government employees and their salaries should not be stopped for reason of not having being vaccinated."

The Court had sought the response of Chief Secretary and Principal Secretary, Home Department of Government of Nagaland.

The Court also directed that advance copy be also sent to Advocate Taka Masa, who is the amicus curiae appointed by the Court in the petition dealing with covid 19 situation in the State and also to the counsel appearing for Health Department.

The matter will now be considered on 18th August.

Title: DR. ANIRUDDHA BABAR v. THE STATE OF NAGALAND AND ANR

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