Daily News Analysis » February 2024 » 286th Law Commission Report on Epidemic Plan : 13 Feb, 2024

286th Law Commission Report on Epidemic Plan : 13 Feb, 2024

The 286th Law Commission Report recommended the creation of an Epidemic Plan and Standard Operation Procedure to address future epidemics.

Key Recommendations:

The Epidemic Diseases Act of 1897 (EDA) is outdated and not equipped to handle modern infectious disease challenges, including the rapid spread due to globalization and connectivity.
There’s a lack of clear roles between the central, state, and local governments during an epidemic, leading to disjointed responses.
The EDA is prone to abuse, and there’s a call for either its amendment or the creation of a new law.

Proposed Changes:

Introduction of an Epidemic Plan and Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) to ensure a coordinated, efficient response to future epidemics or pandemics.

Epidemic Plan	Standard Operating Procedure (SOP)
Aimed at ensuring a unified response to health emergencies Detailed roles for central, state, and local authorities. Developed in collaboration with all stakeholders To include strategies on quarantine, isolation, lockdowns, privacy-conscious disease surveillance, distribution of medical supplies, and public communication, ensuring fundamental rights are respected.	Designed to provide a clear framework for action at various stages of an epidemic, from local outbreaks to inter-state spread and extreme threats. Outlines specific measures and roles for authorities at each stage, ensuring a prompt and effective response to contain the spread of diseases.

About Law Commission:

A non-statutory body, periodically constituted by the Government of India, acting as an advisory body to the Ministry of Law and Justice.
functions include law research, review of existing laws, proposing reforms, and suggesting new legislation.