In Re: Death Of 25 Chained Inmates In ... vs Union Of India And Ors.

The Supreme Court, taking suo moto cognizance of a tragic incident where over 25 mentally challenged patients died in a fire at a mental asylum, highlighted the failure of the Central and State Governments to implement the Mental Health Act, 1987. The Court emphasized the need for urgent action to enforce the provisions of the Act, which aims to ensure the care and treatment of mentally ill persons. The Court appointed an Amicus Curiae to assist in the matter and called for compliance reports from the concerned authorities, indicating a judicial oversight on the implementation of mental health laws.