Background: The Orissa High Court recently heard a petition filed by a group of families of COVID-19 victims, seeking compensation for their loss. Parties: The petition was filed by the families, while the respondents included the Orissa Government and the state health department. Legal issues: The primary issue before the court was whether the state government was bound to provide compensation to the families of COVID-19 victims. Court observations: The court directed the state government to provide compensation to the families, observing that it was bound to do so by the Constitution and the relevant laws. The court also noted that the state government had failed to provide any valid reasons for not providing compensation. Significance: The order is significant as it upholds the rights of the families of COVID-19 victims to receive compensation for their loss. The provision of compensation is seen as an important step towards promoting social justice and equality. The case highlights the importance of ensuring that the rights of all individuals are protected and promoted by the state, especially during times of crisis.