Supreme court
Supreme Court Directs States to Provide Free COVID-19 Vaccination to All Citizens
The Supreme Court of India has directed all states to provide free COVID-19 vaccination to all citizens. A bench comprising Justices D.Y. Chandrachud, L. Nageswara Rao, and S. Ravindra Bhat was hearing a petition filed by a lawyer, who argued that the centre's vaccination policy is discriminatory and violates the right to life and health. The court observed that the vaccination policy has resulted in a digital divide, with many citizens unable to access vaccination due to lack of digital literacy or access to technology. The bench noted that the policy has also resulted in a divide between the rich and the poor, with many citizens unable to afford vaccination. The court directed the centre to review its vaccination policy and to provide free vaccination to all citizens, regardless of their income or social status. The judgment is significant, as it highlights the importance of promoting public health and protecting the right to life and health. The court's decision is expected to impact the lives of millions of citizens in India, and will help to promote health equity and social justice in the country. The judgment is also likely to impact the use of technology in Indian healthcare, particularly in the context of digital health initiatives and telemedicine. The court's emphasis on the need for a non-discriminatory vaccination policy highlights the importance of promoting social justice and equality in India. The court's decision is a significant step towards promoting public health and protecting the right to life and health in India, and is expected to have a lasting impact on the country's healthcare system. The judgment is also likely to impact the use of executive power by the Indian government, particularly in the context of health policy-making. Overall, the Supreme Court's decision is a significant development in the evolution of Indian law and is expected to promote social justice and equality in the country.
