SAHRC takes Operation Dudula, March and March to court over illegal blockades at healthcare facilities

THE SA Human Rights Commission (SAHRC) has initiated urgent legal proceedings against what it calls the “unlawful and discriminatory” actions of groups such as Operation Dudula and March and March, who continue to block non-nationals and undocumented individuals from accessing public healthcare facilities.

- KAMOGELO MOICHELA

Despite multiple warnings and public appeals, the SAHRC said these groups and individuals have persisted in their campaign of intimidation at hospitals and clinics, denying vulnerable people their constitutional right to medical treatment.

In response, the commission has lodged an urgent application with the Durban High Court, set to be heard on October 10, to safeguard access to public healthcare and protect the rights of all persons within South African borders — regardless of nationality or documentation status.

“The right to access healthcare is universal and must be protected without discrimination,’ said the SAHRC in a statement.