ORDER

On the basis of submission note of the Registrar (Judicial) to a news item published in all leading national dailies about a gruesome tragedy in which more than 25 mentally challenged patients housed in a mental asylum at Ervadi in Ramanathapuram district were charred to death, the patients could not escape the blaze as they had been chained to poles or beds, this Court took suo moto action.

2. After considering the factual report, Dr. Abhishek Manu Singhvi, learned senior counsel was appointed as Amicus Curiae to assist the Court and notice was also issued to the Union of India.

3. Thereafter, by order dated 15.10.2001 this Court called for the report of the State of Tamil Nadu on the subject and also sought information on the topics which are mentioned, from the State Governments and Union Government on an affidavit of competent authority.

4. Thereafter, when the matter was placed before this Court on 21.1.2002, most of the States sought extension of time for compliance with the order passed by this Court. The matter was adjourned for 29.1.2002. On that day also, some of the State Governments again sought extension of time for compliance with the directions issued by this Court