1
Reportable
IN THE SUPREME COURT OF INDIA
CIVIL ORIGINAL JURISDICTION
Suo Motu Writ Petition (Civil) No.3 of 2021
IN RE: DISTRIBUTION OF ESSENTIAL SUPPLIES AND SERVICES
DURING PANDEMIC
2
O R D E R
This order has been divided into the following sections to facilitate analysis:
A Introduction
B Submission by Counsel
C National Vaccination Policy
D Separation of Powers
E Issues with the Liberalized Vaccination Policy
E.1 Vaccine Procurement and Distribution among Different Categories of the
Population
E.2 Effects of Vaccination by Private Hospitals under the Liberalized
Vaccination Policy
E.3 Basis and Impact of Differential Pricing
E.4 Vaccine Logistics
E.5 Digital Divide
F Conclusion
PART A
3
A Introduction
1 Proceedings in the present suo motu writ petition were initiated on 22 April
2021, when this Court took cognizance of the management of the COVID-19
pandemic during the second wave. Subsequently, hearings were conducted on 23
April 2021, 27 April 2021 and 30 April 2021 when submissions were heard on behalf
of the Union of India1
, States/Union Territories2
, learned Amici appointed by this
Court and some of the intervenors.
2 On 30 April 2021, this Court passed a detailed order in relation, inter alia, to
the following issues: vaccination policy, supply of essential drugs, supply of medical
oxygen, medical infrastructure, augmentation of healthcare workforce and the issues
faced by them, and issues of freedom of speech and expression during the COVID19 pandemic. In its order, this Court had noted that its observations and directions
were in consonance with a bounded-deliberative approach3
and hence, the UoI was
directed to re-consider its policies on the above issues, taking into account this
Court‟s observations.
3 Following the order dated 30 April 2021, another two judge Bench of this
Court heard a Special Leave Petition4
against an order of the High Court of Delhi in
relation to the supply of medical oxygen to the National Capital Territory5
of Delhi.
During the course of the proceedings in that matter, the Bench primarily issued
directions in relation to the supply of medical oxygen to the NCT of Delhi. However,
through its order dated 6 May 2021, it also constituted a National Task Force to
provide a public heath response to the COVID-19 pandemic on the basis of a
scientific approach. The terms of reference of this National Task Force included,
inter alia, assessing and making recommendations for the need, availability and
distribution of medical oxygen; devising a methodology for allocation of medical
oxygen and periodical review of the allocation based on the stage of the pandemic;
1
“UoI”/interchangeably referred to as the “Central Government”
2
“UTs”
3
Sandra Fredman, “Adjudication as Accountability: A Deliberative Approach” in Nicholas Bamforth
and Peter Leyland (eds), Accountability in the Contemporary Constitution (Oxford University Press,
2013)
4 Union of India vs Rakesh Malhotra and another, SLP (Civil) (Diary) No 11622 of 2021
5
“NCT”
4
providing recommendations for augmenting the supplies of oxygen; facilitating audits
in each State/UT to determine whether oxygen supplies had reached its destination;
efficacy, transparency and efficiency of the distribution networks within the State/UT;
providing recommendations for ensuring availability of essential drugs, augmentation
of medical and paramedical staff, management of the pandemic and treatment of
cases.
4 During the course of the proceedings on 31 May 2021, we had the benefit of
perusing the details provided in the affidavit filed by the UoI on 9 May 2021. The
submissions contained in the affidavit were supplemented and updated in the
hearing by Mr Tushar Mehta, learned Solicitor General of India, appearing on behalf
of the Central Government. We have further heard the learned Amici, Mr Jaideep
Gupta and Ms Meenakshi Arora, learned Senior counsel.
5 Since the last hearing in this matter, the second wave of the COVID-19
pandemic has started receding across the nation and the situation appears to have
become more manageable. Hence, some of the issues discussed in the previous
orders can await further deliberation. However, the issue of vaccination is absolutely
crucial, since health experts globally agree that vaccination of the nation‟s entire
eligible population is the singular most important task in effectively combating the
COVID-19 pandemic in the long run. Hence, during the course of the proceedings on
31 May 2021, this Court has limited itself to hearing submissions on the UoI‟s
vaccination policy and its roadmap for the future. By way of abundant clarification,
we note that all of the issues contained in this Court‟s previous orders still retain their
overall importance, and this Court shall continue to monitor them alongside the
National Task Force and intervene whenever necessary.
6 It is also important to note that numerous interlocutory applications and
affidavits by individual State/UT Governments and members of civil society have
been filed before us in this matter. We have perused them to understand the key
issues being raised there, along with the helpful notes provided by the Amici.
PART B
5
B Submission by Counsel
7 Mr Tushar Mehta, learned Solicitor General, relying on the UoI‟s affidavit
dated 9 May 2021, has made the following submissions to supplement it, in view of
the recent updates:
(i) The vaccination drive will be complete by the end of December 2021, and the
Central Government is in active talks with foreign vaccine manufacturers at
the highest political and diplomatic levels, to ensure the adequate supply of
vaccines;
(ii) It would be incorrect to state that a consequence of the UoI‟s updated policy
on vaccination of those in the 18-44 age group is that there will be competition
amongst the States/UTs; and
(iii) Everyone above the age of 45 years can continue to get vaccinated at a
facility through on-site registration, without previously having to book an
appointment through CoWIN.
8 Mr Jaideep Gupta and Ms Meenakshi Arora, learned Senior counsel and
Amici, have raised the following issues relating to vaccination distribution,
augmentation of vaccine production and differential pricing of vaccines and the future
preparedness for dealing with the COVID-19 pandemic:
(i) With respect to the procurement of vaccines, reports suggest that foreign
vaccine manufacturers are generally not receptive or open to a dialogue with
State/UT Governments on the basis that, as a matter of corporate policy, they
only deal with federal governments of different nations;
(ii) Since 1978 till 1 May 2021, the UoI has implemented the Universal
Immunization Programme6
under which essential vaccines were procured by
the UoI and were distributed to States/UTs free of cost for administering them
to the end beneficiary. The said policy has held the test of times. Even during
the vaccination drive for COVID-19 in phases 1 and 2 for vaccination of
healthcare workers7
, frontline workers8
and persons above the age of 45
years, the UoI procured all the vaccines and distributed them to State/UT
6
“UIP”
7
“HCWs”
8
“FLWs”
PART B
6
Governments for administration. The single procurement model has also been
followed by other nations for ensuring fast and effective administration of
vaccines against COVID-19;
(iii) The UIP has been replaced by the Liberalized Pricing and Accelerated
National COVID-19 Vaccination Strategy9
from 1 May 2021 in phase 3 of the
vaccination drive, whereby State/UT Governments or private hospitals are
required to procure vaccines for persons between the age group of 18-44
years from the private manufacturers on the basis of a pro rata quota set by
the UoI;
(iv) The Liberalized Vaccination Policy leaves the State/UT Governments to fend
for themselves, rather than the Central Government acting on behalf of the
entire nation. As a consequence, the vaccine manufacturers are free to
implement a differential procurement price for the UoI for vaccinating persons
above 45 years of age, and for the State/UT Governments and private
hospitals for vaccinating the persons between 18-44 years of age;
(v) While the Liberalized Vaccination Policy has been introduced to spur
competitive prices, there are multiple States/UTs competing to purchase a
scarce commodity from a few vaccine manufacturers. Consequently, the
manufacturers have the advantage of creating a monopoly and selling it at
any price that they desire to private healthcare institutions. The State/UT
Governments do not enjoy the unique position of the UoI, which has the
advantage of being a monopolistic buyer and can negotiate an appropriate
price for the vaccines on behalf of the entire population of India;
(vi) The Liberalized Vaccination Policy puts an undue burden on persons between
the age group of 18-44 years, specifically persons belonging to a poor socioeconomic background, who have to purchase two doses of vaccines either
from the State/UT Governments or private hospitals;
(vii) In the alternative, the UoI has stated that all State/UT Governments have
agreed to vaccinate their population free of cost and have undertaken to bear
the burden of the vaccines which are available at a higher purchase price than
the one available to the UoI. Thus, the end beneficiary is not impacted by the
9
“Liberalized Vaccination Policy”
PART B
7
differential pricing in the Liberalized Vaccination Policy. With regard to this
submission, the Amici have raised the following concerns:
(a) While some States/UTs have announced that they will vaccinate their
population for free, this policy statement must be confirmed by the
State/UT Governments on affidavit before this Court. The Liberalized
Vaccination Policy as it stands today, does not incorporate a condition
whereby the cost of vaccination is imposed on the State/UT
Governments. Instead, the end beneficiary is liable to pay the cost.
There is a necessity for the State/UT Governments to place their
decisions on record and for it to be part of the formal policy, such that
persons can enforce their right to free vaccination, including before the
courts;
(b) Although the State/UT Governments may have announced free
vaccination for their population, some of them are contesting the
Liberalized Vaccination Policy before this Court and have advanced
submissions for universal vaccination by the Central Government. Thus,
it cannot conclusively be stated that State/UT Governments have agreed
to the policy decision taken by the Central Government of deviating from
the single procurement model;
(c) The Liberalized Vaccination Policy, as a consequence of its differential
pricing, treats individuals living across India residing in different
States/UTs unequally, as States/UTs that are financially distressed may
not be able to afford to purchase the vaccines at the prices set by the
vaccine manufacturers or to lift the quantity allocated to them; and
(d) The end result of the Liberalized Vaccination Policy is that the UoI can
purchase vaccines at Rs 150 per dose for Covishield and Covaxin, while
the State/UT Governments have to pay Rs 300 and Rs 400 per dose
respectively. If the UoI were to be the single procurement agency for all
vaccines at a fixed cost, then the cost of vaccination to the public
exchequer would be substantially lower. Thus, it is incorrect to suggest
that the end beneficiary, who contributes to the public exchequer, will not
be unduly impacted;
(viii) Although public health is a subject under Entry 6 of List II (State List) of the
Seventh Schedule to the Constitution, Entry 81 of List I (Union List) deals with
PART B
8
inter-State migration and inter-State quarantine and Entry 29 of List III
(Concurrent List) deals with prevention of extension from one State to another
of infectious or contagious diseases. Thus, the management of the pandemic,
control of the spread of COVID-19, vaccination policy and pricing, are the
responsibility of the Central Government, which must work in tandem with the
State/UT Governments. The Liberalized Vaccination Policy, by putting the
burden of vaccination of persons between 18-44 years of age on the State/UT
Governments, conflicts with this constitutional balance of responsibilities
between the Centre and States/UTs;
(ix) With regard to the vaccine distribution, the Liberalized Vaccination Policy has
created a quota of 50:25:25 for the 18-44 age group. The quota of 25% that is
available to State/UT Governments, which is equivalent to the private
hospitals, is extremely disproportionate and not in touch with societal realities,
as a large number of persons may not be able to afford two doses of a
vaccine from a private hospital. Thus, if State/UT Governments are to bear the
burden of vaccinating a majority of the persons in their States/UTs, the quota
available to the private hospitals must be reduced;
(x) The Liberalized Vaccination Policy does not provide any clarity on the basis of
the pro rata allotment of the doses to each State/UT (available for purchase
by the State/UT Government and private hospitals). The Policy does not
indicate whether such apportionment will be on the basis of population; state
of the pandemic in each State/UT; or the number of persons with comorbidities between 18-44 years of age, among others. Further, the Policy
does not indicate whether the pro rata allotment will be made by the UoI or the
private vaccine manufacturer;
(xi) It is reported that UoI on certain occasions has stated that it will refrain from
interfering in the issue of vaccine distribution. Contrarily, UoI has also been
stated that it may decide to redistribute the vaccines procured by it among
State/UT Governments. The basis on which the re-distribution of vaccines will
take place among States/UTs has not been provided in the policy document;
(xii) The Liberalized Vaccination Policy does not provide for prioritizing of persons
with co-morbidities; persons with disabilities or suffering from other illnesses;
care-givers for the elderly and sick; teachers and others in the age group of
18-44 years. Further, the CoWIN application is not built with functions which
PART B
9
prioritize a certain category of persons, as it only books appointments on a
first-cum-first-served basis;
(xiii) News reports indicate that crematorium workers have either not been
vaccinated, or are unaware that they are eligible for vaccination in phases 1
and 2;
(xiv) With regard to preparedness, the UoI has claimed that it will be able to
vaccinate a substantial number of persons (around 100 crore persons
requiring 200 crore doses) by December 2021. However, no projections have
been shared with this Court regarding how this target would be achieved.
Based on reports, it appears that the UoI has factored a number of vaccines
that are currently in their development stages to reach its projected number of
200 crore doses. This approach would be misguided as the success and
efficacy of vaccines that are currently in the stage of clinical trials is uncertain
and cannot be guaranteed;
(xv) There is material to suggest that the augmentation of vaccine production will
be inadequate to vaccinate the population between 18-44 years of age. The
total population of this age group is 59 crores, which would require around
122 crore doses. Based on reports, the existing manufacturers (Serum
Institute of India10 and Bharat Biotech India Limited11) will be able to produce
less than 10 crore doses per month. Optimistically, around 15-20 crores doses
of Sputnik V will be available per month. At this rate, it would take around 12
months for the population in this age group to be inoculated, by which time the
virus may have mutated, causing further waves of the pandemic;
(xvi) Meanwhile, there is a necessity to ensure that guidelines regarding
standardization of masks are formulated and publicized. Thus, medical
guidance is necessary to ensure that masks of appropriate quality are
produced and distributed free of cost to curb the spread of the infection; and
(xvii) It has been reported that due to dearth of electric crematoria, persons who
have succumbed to COVID-19 are not dignified with a proper cremation and
are cremated without any rituals. The UoI and State/UT Governments may
consider forming appropriate guidelines which augment the creation of
infrastructure for electric crematoria and a protocol for cremation of the dead.
10 “SII”
11 “BBIL”
PART C
10
C National Vaccination Policy
9 Phase 1 of the National COVID-19 Vaccination Strategy was launched on 16
January 2021 and 1 February 2021 and was targeted towards protecting HCWs and
FLWs. Phase 2 was initiated on 1 March 2021 and 1 April 2021, and was directed
towards protecting the most vulnerable population in the age group of persons above
45 years of age. In phase 1 and 2, the UoI was procuring the vaccines and
distributing them to the States/UTs free of cost for disbursal through government and
private COVID-19 vaccination centres. The private facilities were not allowed to
charge a sum above Rs 250 per person per dose (Rs 150 for vaccines and Rs 100
as operational charges) from a beneficiary.
10 During phase 2, eligible beneficiaries could register and book appointments
for vaccination on the CoWIN 2.0 portal or other IT applications such as Aarogya
Setu. From 1 March 2021 onwards, the population aged 60 years or which would
attain the age of 60 years or more as on 1 January 2022 was eligible to register on
the CoWIN platform. Further, persons who were aged 45 years or would attain the
age of 45 years to 59 years as on 1 January 2022 and had any of the 20 specified
co-morbidities were also eligible to register on the CoWIN platform. From 1 April
2021 onwards, all persons who were aged 45 years or would attain the age of 45
years to 59 years as on 1 January 2022 were eligible to register on the CoWIN
platform. On-site registration facility was also made available at vaccination centres
in this phase.
11 In phase 3, a Liberalized Vaccination Policy was introduced by the UoI, which
came into effect on 1 May 2021. We have perused the documents available in the
public domain (guidance note12, press releases13 and policy document14) issued by
the Central Government to understand the written policy of the Central Government
12 Guidance Note For COWIN 2.0 dated 28 February 2021, available at
<https://www.mohfw.gov.in/pdf/GuidancedocCOWIN2.pdf>
13 Press releases dated 28 February 2021 and 19 April 2021, available at
<https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1701549> and
<https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1712710>
14 Liberalized Pricing and Accelerated National Covid-19 Vaccination Strategy dated 24 April 2021,
available at
<https://www.mohfw.gov.in/pdf/LiberalisedPricingandAcceleratedNationalCovid19VaccinationStrategy
2042021.pdf>
PART C
11
with regard to phase 3. Based on such documents, the main elements of the
Liberalized Vaccination Policy can be identified as:
(i) Vaccine manufacturers are required to supply 50% of their monthly Central
Drugs Laboratory15 doses to the UoI and would be free to supply the
remaining 50% doses to State/UT Governments and in „other than
Government of India channel‟16;
(ii) Manufacturers were required to make a declaration of the price of the 50%
supply that would be available to State/UT Governments and in the „other than
GoI channel‟ before 1 May 2021. Based on this price, States/UTs, private
hospitals and industrial establishments through their hospitals may procure
vaccines from the manufacturers. Private hospitals would be able to procure
their supplies only from the 50% supply earmarked for „other than GoI
channel‟;
(iii) The prices charged for vaccination by private hospitals would be monitored.
As a result, the earlier dispensation where private COVID-19 vaccination
centres which received doses from the UoI could charge up to Rs 250 per
dose ceased to exist;
(iv) The population which is now eligible to obtain vaccines at UoI‟s vaccination
centres is limited to HCWs, FLWs and those above 45 years of age. The
population between 18-44 years is eligible to obtain vaccines from „other than
GoI channel‟;
(v) The vaccination would continue to be available for free for eligible population
groups in those vaccination centres which receive their vaccine doses from
UoI;
(vi) The vaccination would continue to be a part of the National Vaccination
Programme and would follow all existing guidelines. The CoWIN platform
would capture the vaccination, stocks and price per vaccination applicable in
all vaccination centres. The vaccination drive would comply with „Adverse
Event Following Immunization‟ management and reporting, digital vaccination
certificate and all other prescribed norms;
15 “CDL”
16 “other than GoI channel”
PART D
12
(vii) The division of 50% supply to UoI and 50% to „other than GoI channel‟ would
be applicable uniformly across all the vaccine manufactures in the country;
(viii) The fully ready to use imported vaccines are allowed to be utilized entirely in
the „other than GoI channel‟; and
(ix) The UoI from its share will allocate vaccines to States/UTs based on criteria of
performance (speed of administration, average consumption) and extent of
infection (number of COVID-19 cases). Wastage of vaccines would also be
considered in the criteria and would affect the allocation negatively. Based on
the above criteria, a State-wise quota would be decided and communicated to
the States/UTs in advance.
12 The facility of only online appointment on the CoWIN portal was initially
introduced for the entirety of the population between the ages of 18-44 years. Later,
on 24 May 202117, the UoI announced that on-site registration will be made available
for the 18-44 years age group. However, this is contingent on: (i) the State/UT
Government enabling this policy; and (ii) only in cases of wastage at a particular
government COVID-19 vaccination centre due to a no-show by an online appointee.
Further, this facility has not been expanded to private COVID-19 vaccination centres.
D Separation of Powers
13 At the outset, we seek to clarify the nature of this Court‟s jurisdiction in the
exercise of the power of judicial review over the management of the COVID-19
pandemic in India. In its affidavit dated 9 May 2021, the UoI has highlighted a few
concerns which are detailed below:
(i) The executive is battling an unprecedented crisis and the government needs
discretion to formulate policy in larger interest and its wisdom should be
trusted;
(ii) The current vaccine policy conforms to Articles 14 and 21 of the Constitution,
and requires no interference from the courts as the executive has “room for
free play in the joints” while dealing with a pandemic of this magnitude;
17 Available at <https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=1721225>
PART D
13
(iii) The current steps are thoughtfully undertaken to tide over an imminent crisis,
which may turn out to be imprudent in the long run. However, they need to be
appreciated from a short-term and holistic perspective;
(iv) Judicial review over executive policies is permissible only on account of
manifest arbitrariness. No interference from judicial proceedings is called for
when the executive is operating on expert medical and scientific opinion to
tackle a medical crisis; and
(v) Any over-zealous judicial intervention, though well-meaning, in the absence of
expert advice or administrative experience may lead to unintended
circumstances where the executive is left with little room to explore innovative
solutions.
14 It is trite to state that separation of powers is a part of the basic structure of
the Constitution. Policy-making continues to be in the sole domain of the executive.
The judiciary does not possess the authority or competence to assume the role of
the executive, which is democratically accountable for its actions and has access to
the resources which are instrumental to policy formulation. However, this separation
of powers does not result in courts lacking jurisdiction in conducting a judicial review
of these policies18. Our Constitution does not envisage courts to be silent spectators
when constitutional rights of citizens are infringed by executive policies. Judicial
review and soliciting constitutional justification for policies formulated by the
executive is an essential function, which the courts are entrusted to perform.
15 We had clarified in our order dated 30 April 2021, that in the context of the
public health emergency with which the country is currently grappling, this Court
appreciates the dynamic nature of the measures. Across the globe, the executive
has been given a wider margin in enacting measures which ordinarily may have
violated the liberty of individuals, but are now incumbent to curb the pandemic.
Historically, the judiciary has also recognized that constitutional scrutiny is
transformed during such public health emergencies, where the executive functions in
rapid consultation with scientists and other experts. In 1905, the Supreme Court of
the United States in Jacobson vs Massachusetts19 considered a constitutional
liberty challenge to a compulsory vaccination law that was enacted to combat the
18 DDA vs Joint Action Committee, (2008) 2 SCC 672
19 197 U.S. 11 (1905)
PART D
14
smallpox epidemic. Justice Harlan had noted the complex role of the government in
battling public health emergencies in the following terms:
“..the State may invest local bodies called into existence for
purposes of local administration with authority in some
appropriate way to safeguard the public health and the public
safety... While this court should guard with firmness every
right appertaining to life, liberty or property as secured to the
individual by the Supreme Law of the Land, it is of the last
importance that it should not invade the domain of local
authority except when it is plainly necessary to do so in order
to enforce that law. The safety and the health of the people of
Massachusetts are, in the first instance, for that
Commonwealth to guard and protect……So far as they can
be reached by any government, they depend, primarily, upon
such action as the State in its wisdom may take, and we do
not perceive that this legislation has invaded any right
secured by the Federal Constitution.”
The Supreme Court of United States, speaking in the wake of the present COVID-19
pandemic in various instances, has overruled policies by observing, inter alia, that
“Members of this Court are not public health experts, and we should respect the
judgment of those with special expertise and responsibility in this area. But even in a
pandemic, the Constitution cannot be put away and forgotten”
20 and “a public health
emergency does not give Governors and other public officials carte blanche to
disregard the Constitution for as long as the medical problem persists. As more
medical and scientific evidence becomes available, and as States have time to craft
policies in light of that evidence, courts should expect policies that more carefully
account for constitutional rights”
21
.
20 Roman Catholic Diocese of Brooklyn, New York vs Cuomo, 592 U.S., 141 S. Ct. 63
21 Calvary Chapel Dayton Valley vs Steve Sisolak, Governor of Nevada, et al, 140 S.Ct. 2603
(Mem) (Justice Alito Dissenting Opinion)
PART E
15
16 Similarly, courts across the globe have responded to constitutional challenges
to executive policies that have directly or indirectly violated rights and liberties of
citizens. Courts have often reiterated the expertise of the executive in managing a
public health crisis, but have also warned against arbitrary and irrational policies
being excused in the garb of the “wide latitude” to the executive that is necessitated
to battle a pandemic. This Court in Gujarat Mazdoor Sabha vs State of Gujarat22
,
albeit while speaking in the context of labour rights, had noted that policies to
counteract a pandemic must continue to be evaluated from a threshold of
proportionality to determine if they, inter alia, have a rational connection with the
object that is sought to be achieved and are necessary to achieve them.
17 In grappling with the second wave of the pandemic, this Court does not intend
to second-guess the wisdom of the executive when it chooses between two
competing and efficacious policy measures. However, it continues to exercise
jurisdiction to determine if the chosen policy measure conforms to the standards of
reasonableness, militates against manifest arbitrariness and protects the right to life
of all persons. This Court is presently assuming a dialogic jurisdiction where various
stakeholders are provided a forum to raise constitutional grievances with respect to
the management of the pandemic. Hence, this Court would, under the auspices of an
open court judicial process, conduct deliberations with the executive where
justifications for existing policies would be elicited and evaluated to assess whether
they survive constitutional scrutiny.
E Issues with the Liberalized Vaccination Policy
E.1 Vaccine Procurement and Distribution among Different Categories of the
Population
18 In our order dated 30 April 2021, the UoI was directed to clarify its vaccination
procurement and distribution policy, especially after the introduction of the
Liberalized Vaccination Policy. We had also directed the UoI to apprise this Court
regarding the projected numbers of vaccinations that would be made available in the
coming months to the public and the efforts being taken to augment vaccine
22 AIR 2020 SC 4601, para 9
PART E
16
production. In its affidavit dated 9 May 2021, UoI has made the following
submissions:
(i) The vaccination policy for COVID-19 that was adopted prior to 1 May 2021 in
phases 1 and 2, was designed as a system of prioritization. After vaccinating
the HCWs and FLWs, vaccination was opened up for age groups on account
of their heightened vulnerability and mortality to COVID-19, in consonance
with the WHO guidelines and international practice;
(ii) In phase 1, HCWs (starting from 16 January 2021) and FLWs (starting from 2
February 2021) were vaccinated. In phase 2, persons above 60 years of age
and persons over 45 years of age with certain co-morbidities (starting from 1
March 2021) and all persons over 45 years of age (starting from 1 April 2021)
were eligible for vaccination. This priority was accorded in view of the fact that
COVID-19 deaths across the world demonstrate that over 85% of all deaths
occurred in the age group over 45 years;
(iii) FLWs such as municipal workers (including crematorium workers) and
panchayat workers were also vaccinated in phase 1 of the vaccination drive;
(iv) With effect from 1 May 2021, the Liberalized Vaccination Policy was
implemented as a response to repeated requests by State/UT Governments,
and after detailed deliberations with domain experts. The parallel
decentralized policy aims to achieve higher efficiency and reach;
(v) Currently, vaccine manufacturers are obligated to supply 50% of their monthly
CDL released doses to the UoI and the remaining 50% doses to the “other
than GoI channel” which can be procured by State/UT Governments, private
hospitals and hospitals of industrial establishments to vaccinate persons in the
age group of 18-44 years;
(vi) The priority of the UoI remains vaccinating persons aged 45 years and above
for free since they are more vulnerable. The simultaneous vaccinations for
persons aged between 18-44 years has been introduced to respect the
wishes of the State/UT Governments. In view of the differential vulnerability
and mortality rates, the Liberalized Vaccination Policy conforms to the
mandate of Articles 14 and 21 of the Constitution;
(vii) In order to eliminate disparity in bargaining powers, “the Central Government
has, in consultation with the vaccine manufacturers determined the pro-rata
PART E
17
population of each State in the age group of 18-44 and each State will procure
only that quantity”;
(viii) The Central Government will notify States/UTs, every fortnight, on the quantity
of vaccines that will be distributed for vaccinating persons aged 45 years and
above;
(ix) With regard to the augmentation of production of vaccines, it is stated that the
National Expert Group on Vaccine Administration for COVID-1923 had
procured 6.6 crore doses for the initial phases. Support for other vaccine
candidates under clinical development is being provided by the „Mission
COVID Suraksha the Indian COVID-19 Vaccine Development Mission‟;
(x) The Central Government is in talks with several vaccine
developers/manufacturers outside India and is seeking to facilitate imports.
The Drugs Controller General of India24 has already approved import of 1.5
lakh doses of the Sputnik V vaccine by Dr Reddy‟s Laboratories‟;
(xi) The availability of vaccines for the next 6 months would be difficult to project
as it is dynamic and contingent on foreign procurement and successful
ramping of production by the two existing manufacturers;
(xii) However, it is also stated that manufacturing capacity is being increased in
the following terms:
(a) SII: from 5 crore doses/month to 6.5 crore doses/month by July 2021;
(b) BBIL: from 90 lakh doses/month to 2 crore doses/month, and further
increase to 5.5 crore doses/month by July 2021; and
(c) Sputnik V: from 30 lakh doses to 1.2 crore doses/month by July 2021;
and
(xiii) The regulatory and testing process for foreign vaccines has been simplified by
the NEGVAC which now allows bridging trials (a nearly 4-month long process)
of foreign vaccines to occur simultaneously with market development.
19 Based on the response of the UoI and the submissions made by the Amici,
we understand that there are three broad issues that are of concern: (i) vaccine
distribution between different age groups; (ii) vaccine procurement process; and (iii)
the augmentation of the vaccine availability in India.
23 “NEGVAC”
24 “DCGI”
PART E
18
20 The affidavit of the UoI sufficiently clarifies the prioritization of the groups in
phases 1 and 2 for obtaining the COVID-19 vaccines. These include HCWs, FLWs
and persons above the age of 45 years. The prioritization of these groups was based
on the experience of India and other countries during the first wave of the pandemic
in 2020. It was largely observed that these groups faced a higher risk of infection and
thus, it was necessary to inoculate them free of cost and on a priority basis by the
Central Government. During the vaccination for these groups, the Central
Government had allowed on-site registration and there was no prior requirement for
booking an appointment on CoWIN. Having said that, the vaccination policy has
been substantially changed for persons between 18-44 years of age. The Liberalized
Vaccination Policy requires some of these persons to pay for the vaccines; limited
vaccines are made available for this category with the State/UT Governments/private
hospitals and an additional requirement of mandatory digital registration and booking
an appointment through CoWIN has been imposed, among others. Unlike the prior
policy, the Liberalized Vaccination Policy does not prioritize persons with comorbidities and other diseases, persons with disabilities, or any other vulnerable
groups. This is especially at issue because the experience of the second wave of the
pandemic has provided an experiential learning that the COVID-19 virus is capable
of mutation and now poses a threat to persons in this age group as well. Reports
indicate that persons between 18-44 years of age have not only been infected by
COVID-19, but have also suffered from severe effects of the infection, including
prolonged hospitalization and, in unfortunate cases, death. Due to the changing
nature of the pandemic, we are now faced with a situation where the 18-44 age
group also needs to be vaccinated, although priority may be retained between
different age groups on a scientific basis. Hence, due to the importance of
vaccinating individuals in the 18-44 age group, the policy of the Central Government
for conducting free vaccination themselves for groups under the first 2 phases, and
replacing it with paid vaccination by the State/UT Governments and private hospitals
for the persons between 18-44 years is, prima facie, arbitrary and irrational.
21 With regard to the procurement process for vaccinations which is to be
followed in view of the Liberalized Vaccination Policy, there are a number of issues
that need to be addressed. The Amici have indicated that many State/UT
Governments and local municipal bodies have issued tenders and attempted to
PART E
19
negotiate with foreign manufacturers but they have largely been unsuccessful, as
foreign manufacturers are not inclined to negotiate with individual State/UT
Governments and prefer negotiating with federal governments of countries.
Additionally, it has been urged that Central Government is also better placed to use
its monopoly as a buyer (India being the second most populous country) to bargain
for higher quantities of vaccines at reasonable prices. We find that the submissions
urged by the Amici are extremely pertinent and have indicated that in practice, the
Liberalized Vaccination Policy may not be able to yield the desired results of spurring
competitive prices and higher quantities of vaccines.
22 Additionally, the Liberalized Vaccination Policy seeks to remove the issue of
bargaining disparities by stating that each State/UT would have a prefixed pro rata
quota based on their population in the 18-44 age group, 50% of which will be
available to the State/UT Governments and 50% to the private hospitals. The Amici
have raised concerns that there is a lack of clarity regarding whether the UoI will
intervene in the distribution process. Given that inter-State barriers in India are
porous and persons are free to migrate and work in different parts of the country, it is
essential to understand if the pro rata allotment will take into account such migration
to more densely populated industrial and urban States/UTs. Other concerns, such as
the stage of the pandemic, the healthcare infrastructure and existing capacities of a
State/UT, the literacy rate, age and overall health condition of its population, may
also be relevant factors in making such a pro rata determination. The UoI should
thus specify whether it seeks to address these concerns within the vaccination policy
such that the State/UT Governments have a realistic assessment of the assistance
they can anticipate from the UoI.
23 We shall now address the issue related to augmentation of vaccine
production/availability. We have noted the submissions of the UoI in its affidavit
dated 9 May 2021, that it is difficult to predict the projections for vaccines given that it
depends on variable factors such as introduction of new foreign vaccines, capability
of increased production by existing manufacturers, among others. Mr Tushar Mehta
has during the course of his oral submissions stated that he is in a position to
address these concerns of this Court and that the UoI aims to vaccinate
approximately 100 crore persons by the end of December 2021. Mr Mehta has
agreed to provide a detailed roadmap regarding projected availability of vaccines
PART E
20
from the various vaccine manufacturers. It has also been highlighted that the Central
Government is in active negotiations with various private foreign manufacturers to
augment the availability of vaccines in the near future.
24 In view of the above, we direct the UoI to undertake a fresh review of its
vaccination policy addressing the concerns raised. Further, we direct the UoI to
provide the following clarifications:
As noted above, the UoI is directed to place on record a roadmap of projected
availability of vaccines till 31 December 2021;
The preparedness with respect to specific needs of children in the event of a
third wave of the pandemic in terms of medical infrastructure, vaccination
trials and regulatory approval, and compatible drugs;
Whether under the policy of the UoI, it is permissible for State/UT
Governments or individual local bodies to access vaccine supplies of foreign
manufacturers;
The number of crematorium workers vaccinated in phase 1. A targeted drive
can be conducted for vaccination of the remaining crematorium workers;
The State/UT Governments are diverting the vaccines (procured by them at a
higher price than Central Government) for the persons in the age group of 18-
44 years to vaccinate persons above 45 years of age, due to a shortage of
vaccines being supplied by the Central Government. The manner in which the
Central Government will factor this quantity and price differential into their
subsequent allocation and disbursal of vaccines to States/UTs for the persons
above 45 years of age; and
The mechanism for redistribution, if the 25:25 quota in a particular State/UT is
not picked up by the State/UT Government or the private hospitals.
E.2 Effects of Vaccination by Private Hospitals under the Liberalized
Vaccination Policy
25 Under the Liberalized Vaccination Policy covering persons in the age group of
18-44 years, the total vaccines produced will be divided in a ratio of 50:25:25
between the Central Government, State/UT Governments and private hospitals. In
PART E
21
its affidavit dated 9 May 2021, the UoI notes the following salient features of this
Liberalized Vaccination Policy, in relation to vaccination by private hospitals:
(i) Out of the 50% quota allocated for the „other than GoI channel‟, 50% will go to
the State/UT Governments, calculated on a pro rata basis as per the
population. The balance 50% would be open for private hospitals‟
procurement, based on contracts with the manufacturers. As such, the
State/UT Governments and private hospitals would each end up with 25% of
the total CDL doses;
(ii) Vaccination through the private sector of 25% of the total CDL quantity would
reduce the operational stress on government facilities and help with issues of
crowding at vaccination centres; and
(iii) Paid vaccination through private hospitals has been introduced for persons
who can afford to pay, thereby reducing the operational stress on the
Government. However, it has also been submitted that this policy may
undergo a change based on performance and future availability of vaccines.
26 As a consequence of this Liberalized Vaccination Policy, 50% of the
population of any State/UT in the 18-44 age group is expected to pay for its
vaccination. From the UoI‟s affidavit, we understand that this has been done while
taking into account the ability of a certain section of the population to pay for their
vaccination. However, the present system of allowing only digital registration and
booking of appointment on CoWIN, coupled with the current scarcity of vaccines, will
ultimately ensure that initially all vaccines, whether free or paid, are first availed by
the economically privileged sections of the society. As such, even those who may
have been able to afford a vaccine, may opt for a free vaccine simply because of
issues of availability, even if it would entail travelling to far-flung rural areas. Hence,
any calculations of the economic ability of a given individual may not directly
correspond to the vaccination route (paid/unpaid) they opt for. Consequently, it is
plausible that private hospitals may have vaccine doses left over with them because
everyone who could afford them has either already bought it or availed of a free
vaccine, while those who need it may not have the ability to pay for it.
27 Further consequences of the vaccination by private hospitals under the
Liberalized Vaccination Policy relate to a simple issue at the core of their existence:
PART E
22
that while they provide a public health service, they still remain private, for-profit
entities. Consequently, they may sell the vaccine doses procured at a higher price,
unless regulated stringently. Private hospitals also may not sell all their vaccine
doses publicly through appointments on CoWIN, but rather sell them for lucrative
deals directly to private corporations who wish to vaccinate their employees. Finally,
private hospitals are not equally spread out across a State/UT and are often limited
to bigger cities with large populations. As such, a larger quantity will be available in
such cities, as opposed to the rural areas.
28 It is pertinent to clarify here that we are not opposed to the involvement of
private hospitals in the vaccination drive. Private health care institutions have an
important role as well. The UoI has correctly noted in its affidavit that these hospitals
will reduce the burden on government facilities. This was also happening earlier for
the vaccination of those above 45 years of age, where the Central Government was
providing these hospitals with vaccines and they were allowed to charge patients a
nominal fee (Rs 250). However, the issue is about the effect of privatizing 50% of all
vaccines available for the 18-44 age group. In view of the above concerns, we direct
the UoI to provide the following clarifications:
The manner in which Central Government will monitor the disbursal of
vaccines to private hospitals, specifically those who have hospital chains pan
India. Further, whether (i) private hospitals are liable to disburse vaccines pro
rata the population of States/UTs; and (ii) the mechanism to determine if
private players are genuinely administering the lifted quota in that State/UT
alone. The UoI shall place on record any written policy in relation to this.
Whether the Central Government conducted a “means-test” of the
demographic of a State/UT to assert that 50% of the population in the 18-44
age group would be able to afford the vaccine. If not, the rationale for private
hospitals being provided an equal quota for procurement as the State/UT
Governments.
The manner in which the Centre and States/UTs shall ensure an equitable
distribution of vaccines across sections of the society, and how this factors
into the rationale of equal apportionment between State/UT Governments and
private hospitals.
PART E
23
The nature of the intervention with respect to the final, end-user price that is
being charged by private hospitals, especially when a cap on procurement by
the private hospitals has been set.
E.3 Basis and Impact of Differential Pricing
Impact of differential pricing
29 In our order dated 30 April 2021, we had elicited the UoI‟s justification for
enabling decentralized procurement where a pre-fixed and differential price was set
for the Central Government, States/UTs and private hospitals. The UoI through its
affidavit dated 9 May 2021, has submitted the following:
(i) The Liberalized Vaccination Policy was introduced to incentivize existing
manufacturers and invite more manufacturers, which will ensure fastest
vaccination of the majority of the population. Differential pricing has been
introduced in order to instill a competitive market which would drive the market
towards affordability and attract offshore vaccine manufacturers;
(ii) Vaccine manufacturers are mandated to transparently declare the price in
advance for procurement by State/UT Governments and private hospitals.
The price for the Central Government is pre-fixed and declared;
(iii) Extensive consultations with the manufacturers were held to ensure that
pricing is uniform and reasonable. The UoI stated that these were “due to
consultations and persuasion" by the Central Government;
(iv) On the differential pricing of the vaccines, it is stated that “the Central
Government by nature of its large vaccination programme, places large
purchase orders for vaccines as opposed to the State Governments and/or
Private Hospitals and therefore, this reality has some reflection in the prices
negotiated”; and
(v) In any event, all persons of all age groups will get free vaccination throughout
the country since all State/UT Governments have announced free vaccination
for persons aged 18-44 years, in addition to the Central Government
vaccinating persons over 45 years for free.
PART E
24
30 The current Liberalized Vaccination Policy enables State/UT Governments
and private hospitals to procure 50% of the monthly CDL approved doses in the
country at a pre-fixed price. The justification for this Policy has been adduced in a bid
to spur competition which would attract more private manufacturers that could
eventually drive down prices. Prima facie, the only room for negotiation with the two
vaccine manufacturers was on price and quantity, both of which have been pre-fixed
by the Central Government. This casts serious doubts on UoI‟s justification for
enabling higher prices as a competitive measure. Furthermore, the Central
Government justifying its lower prices on account of its ability to place large
purchase orders for vaccines, raises the issue as to why this rationale is not being
employed for acquiring 100% of the monthly CDL doses. The Union Budget for
Financial Year 2021-2022 had earmarked Rs 35000 crores for procuring vaccines25
.
In light of the Liberalized Vaccination Policy, the Central Government is directed to
clarify how these funds have been spent so far and why they cannot be utilized for
vaccinating persons aged 18-44 years.
31 In response to our questions on the poor and marginalized suffering on
account of the vaccine prices, the Central Government in its affidavit stated that the
eventual beneficiary of the vaccine would not be affected by the Liberalized
Vaccination Policy since every State/UT has promised to vaccinate its residents free
of cost. Nevertheless, it is reiterated that the UoI should consider utilizing its position
as the monopolistic buyer in the market and pass down the benefit to all persons.
Even if the States/UTs were to fund the higher-priced vaccines, a burden they were
not discharging before the Liberalized Vaccination Policy was introduced and
potentially may not have planned in advance for, these funds are expended at the
behest of the public exchequer. The Centre and States/UTs, both operate in the
service of the Indian population, and raise and disburse funds in their name. The
additional funds expended on procuring vaccines against a deadly pandemic are
necessary expenditure for any State/UT Government which has battled the public
health emergency for over 15 months now. However, an avoidable expense would
eventually hurt the welfare of individuals residing within those States/UTs, who may
potentially be benefitted by the differential funds being utilized for ramping up the
health infrastructure in the State/UT, which is equally important to combat the
25 Available at <https://www.indiabudget.gov.in/doc/Budget_Speech.pdf>, page 7
PART E
25
pandemic. If the Central Government‟s unique monopolistic buyer position is the only
reason for it receiving vaccines at a much lower rate from manufacturers, it is
important for us to examine the rationality of the existing Liberalized Vaccination
Policy against Article 14 of the Constitution, since it could place severe burdens,
particularly on States/UTs suffering from financial distress.
Basis of pricing
32 In our order dated 30 April 2021, we had requested for data on government
funding and support, direct or indirect, into the two vaccines that are currently
authorized for public use – SII‟s Covishield and BBIL‟s Covaxin. Additionally, in order
to evaluate the bottlenecks in vaccine scarcity, we had sought the UoI‟s stance on
invoking its powers of compulsory licensing under the Patents Act, 1970 in order to
ramp up manufacturing and other statutory provisions to drive down costs. The UoI
has adduced the following justifications in its affidavit dated 9 May 2021:
(i) SII and BBIL have taken a financial risk in developing and manufacturing
these vaccines and prudence dictates pricing through a transparent and
consultative negotiation, and statutory provisions must be invoked in the last
resort;
(ii) Covaxin is developed under a public-private partnership through a formal MoU
between Indian Council of Medical Research26 and BBIL. ICMR would receive
a 5% royalty on net sales, the intellectual property is shared between ICMR
and BBIL and clauses such as prioritization of in-country supplies have been
included. Phase 3 trials of Covaxin have been funded by the ICMR to the tune
of Rs 35 crores;
(iii) Covishield is manufactured by SII. The Central Government has directly
transferred Rs 11 crores to 14 clinical trials sites for conducting phase 3 trials
of over 1600 participants; and
(iv) Covaxin production is being augmented with government support to the tune
of Rs 200 crores to one private manufacturer and 3 public sector
manufacturing facilities – Bharat Biotech, Hyderabad; Indian Immunologicals,
Hyderabad; Haffkine Biopharmaceuticals, Mumbai; and Bharat
Immunologicals and Biologicals, Bulandshar. This is projected to enhance
26 “ICMR”
PART E
26
Covaxin‟s current manufacturing of 1 crore doses/month to nearly 10 crore
doses/month in the next 8-10 months. Grant-in-aids have been
recommended, but the disbursements are yet to be made.
33 We commend the co-operative efforts of the UoI and the private
manufacturers in developing and distributing vaccines which are critical to mitigate
the pandemic. The import of our further line of questioning is to facilitate a better
understanding of the process of development and augmentation of vaccine
production and its pricing for States/UTs and private hospitals. Hence, we direct that
the UoI to provide the following clarifications:
Since the Central Government has financed (officially, Rs 35 crores to BBIL
and Rs 11 crore to SII for phase 3 clinical trials) and facilitated the production
(or augmentation of production) of these vaccines through concessions or
otherwise, it may not be accurate to state that the private entities have alone
borne the risk and cost of manufacture. Additionally, the Central Government
would have minimized the risks of the manufacturers by granting Emergency
Use Authorization to the vaccines, which should factor into its pricing.
The manner in which public financing is reflected in the procurement price for
the Central Government, which is significantly lower than price for the
State/UT Governments and private hospitals. Given that the R&D cost and IP
have either been shared between the Central Government and the private
manufacturer (in case of Covaxin) or the manufacturer has not invested in
R&D of the vaccine (in case of Covishield), the manner in which the pricing of
vaccines has been arrived at, with the Central Government refusing to
intervene statutorily. The justification for intervening in pre-fixing procurement
prices and quantities for States/UTs and private hospitals, but not imposing
statutory price ceilings.
Comparison between the prices of vaccines being made available in India, to
their prices internationally.
Whether ICMR/BBIL formally invited contracts for voluntary licensing and if so,
whether they have they received viable offers. The manner in which the UoI
is independently trying to assist manufacturers for developing BSL3 labs
which are essential for Covaxin production.
PART E
27
E.4 Vaccine Logistics
34 We have already noted that as a consequence of the Liberalized Vaccination
Policy, the responsibility for the vaccination in phase 3 is being divided between the
Central Government (for those above 45 years of age, HCWs and FLWs) and the
State/UT Government along with the private hospitals (for the age group of 18-44
years). This would mean that the limited vaccine logistics available in a State/UT
would have to be shared between the State/UT Government and the Central
Government. This is different from the situation under the UIP, where the Central
Government buys and allocates vaccines to States/UTs, in order to ensure that their
cold storage facilities are not overwhelmed. Hence, we direct the UoI to provide the
following clarifications:
The manner in which cold storage equipment capacity is being balanced
between the Central and State/UT Governments. The manner in which the
States/UTs are managing the logistical burden for vaccinating persons aged
between 18-44 years, along with persons aged over 45 years.
Whether cold storage facilities in India have increased for the COVID-19
vaccination drive; the present numbers, and comparison with the numbers
prior to March 2020;
Whether the cold storage equipment is indigenously manufactured or is
imported. If it is imported, the steps which have been taken to start
indigenous manufacturing.
The steps being taken to improve the cold storage management for vaccines
which may require lower temperature to be stored, compared to the ones
which currently have approval in India.
E.5 Digital Divide
35 In our order dated 30 April 2021, we had highlighted the concerns relating to
the ability of the marginalized members of society to avail of vaccination, exclusively
through a digital portal in the face of a digital divide. The UoI‟s affidavit made the
following submissions in relation to the accessibility of the CoWIN portal:
(i) The CoWIN portal enables one person to register 4 persons using the same
mobile number;
PART E
28
(ii) All gram panchayats in the country have Common Service Centres27 which
can effectively enable people residing in rural areas to register online for the
vaccination;
(iii) Citizens who do not have access to digital resources could take help from
family, friends, NGOs and CSCs;
(iv) Walk-ins cannot be permitted due to the scarcity of vaccines and fears of
over-crowding at centres. The online registration requirement counters this
fear and also effectively monitors the administration of the second dose. The
policy may be re-considered subsequently when more vaccines are available;
(v) Identity proofs are required for the purpose of determining age and keeping a
track of persons who are due for the second dose. However, in recognizing
the issues arising with the insistence of one of the seven prescribed photo-ID
proofs, the Central Government issued an SoP dated 23 April 2021 which
enables bulk registration of certain identifiable groups, such as homeless
persons, who would be identified and registered by the District Immunization
Task Force; and
(vi) It is clarified that walk-in vaccination facilities will continue for persons over the
age of 45 years in separate, designated vaccination centres. This is because
vaccinations have been underway for this age group for a while and overcrowding has not been experienced so far.
36 A survey on „Household Social Consumption: Education‟ was conducted by
National Statistics Office (July 2017-June 2018)28 which revealed the following:
(i) Around 4% of the rural households and 23% of the urban households
possessed a computer. In the age group of 15-29 years, around 24% in rural
households and 56% in urban areas were able to operate a computer; and
(ii) Nearly 24% of the households in the country had internet access during the
survey year 2017-18. The proportion was 15% in rural households and 42% in
urban households. Around 35% of persons in the age group of 15-29 years
reported use of internet during the 30 days prior to the date of survey. The
proportions were 25% in rural areas and 58% in urban areas.
27 “CSC”
28 Available at
<http://mospi.nic.in/sites/default/files/publication_reports/Report_585_75th_round_Education_final_15
07_0.pdf>
PART E
29
37 The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India in its report titled „Wireless Data
Services in India‟29 noted that:
(i) Out of the total population of 1.3 billion, only 578 million people in India (less
than 50%) have subscription to wireless data services. The wireless tele
density in rural areas is 57.13% as compared to 155.49% in urban areas as
on 31 March 2019. The report stated that:
“[this] reflects the rural-urban divide in terms of telecom
services‟ penetration. Since, the number of wireless data
subscribers are less than 50% of the total wireless access
subscribers, the number of wireless data subscribers in rural
areas would be much lower”.
(ii) The report also noted that in a few Indian States like Bihar, Uttar Pradesh and
Assam the tele density is less than 75%; and
(iii) The monthly income of persons living below the poverty line in urban areas
and rural areas is Rs 1316 and Rs 896, respectively. However, to access
internet data services, a minimum tariff plan would cost around Rs 49, which
includes 1 GB data every 28 days. This would constitute 4-5% of the month‟s
income of such persons accessing data. As such, the report notes that this
would bear a considerable cost for persons living below the poverty line.
38 According to the Annual Report of CSC for 2019-20, published by the Ministry
of Electronics and Information Technology, while there are 2,53,134 Gram
Panchayats in India, as on 31 March 2020 only 2,40,792 Gram Panchayats are
covered with at least one registered CSC30. Hence, approximately 13,000 Gram
Panchayats in India do not have a CSC.
39 It is clear from the above statistics that there exists a digital divide in India,
particularly between the rural and urban areas. The extent of the advances made in
improving digital literacy and digital access falls short of penetrating the majority of
the population in the country. Serious issues of the availability of bandwidth and
connectivity pose further challenges to digital penetration. A vaccination policy
exclusively relying on a digital portal for vaccinating a significant population of this
29 Available at
<https://www.trai.gov.in/sites/default/files/Wireless_Data_Service_Report_21082019_0.pdf>
30 Available at <https://csc.gov.in/assets/events-report/Annual-Report-2019-20.pdf>, at page 8
PART E
30
country between the ages of 18-44 years would be unable to meet its target of
universal immunization owing to such a digital divide. It is the marginalized sections
of the society who would bear the brunt of this accessibility barrier. This could have
serious implications on the fundamental right to equality and the right to health of
persons within the above age group. In this regard, we direct that the UoI to provide
the following clarifications:
It may not be feasible to require the majority of our population to rely on
friends/NGOs for digital registrations over CoWIN, when even the digitally
literate are finding it hard to procure vaccination slots.
The issue of over-crowding may also arise at CSCs in rural areas where
people would have to visit constantly in hope of a vaccine slot opening up.
Certain vaccination centres may be earmarked for on-site registrations for the
population aged between 18-44 years without the existing conditions
prescribed in the circular dated 24 May 2021, potentially with a view to
prioritize those with co-morbidities/disabilities/other socio-economic
vulnerabilities. Alternatively, whether specific daily quotas may be introduced
for on-site registration at each centre or specific centres.
This policy may not allay the issue of hesitancy which may arise from
approaching a State authority (such as the District Immunization Task Force)
to obtain registration for the vaccination. Whether on-site registration with selfattestation of age to ensure widespread vaccination can be provided.
The CoWIN platform and other IT applications like Aarogya Setu should be
made available in regional languages. The timeline for ensuring the availability
of the platform in multiple regional languages.
Conducting a disability audit for the CoWIN website and other IT application
like Aarogya Setu to ensure that they are accessible to persons with
disabilities.
40 It has been brought to our notice that the CoWIN platform is not accessible to
persons with visual disabilities. The website suffers from certain accessibility barriers
which should be addressed. These include:
(i) Audio or text captcha is not available;
PART F
31
(ii) The seven filters, which inter alia, include age group, name of vaccine and
whether the vaccine is paid or free, are not designed accessibly. This issue
can be addressed by creation of a drop-down list;
(iii) While visually challenged persons can determine the number of available
vaccine slots, one cannot find out the day those slots correspond to. This can
be resolved by ensuring that table headers correspond to associated cells;
(iv) Keyboard support for navigating the website is absent;
(v) Adequate time should be given to disabled users to schedule their
appointment without the possibility of being automatically logged off; and
(vi) Accessibility protocols, such as use of appropriate colour contrasts, should be
adhered to.
F Conclusion
41 We direct the UoI to file an affidavit, which shall address the issues and
questions raised in Section E, wherein it shall ensure that each issue is responded to
individually and no issue is missed out. We also direct that the affidavit should
provide the following information:
The data on the percentage of population that has been vaccinated (with one
dose and both doses), as against eligible persons in the first three phases of
the vaccination drive. This shall include data pertaining to the percentage of
rural population as well as the percentage of urban population so vaccinated;
The complete data on the Central Government‟s purchase history of all the
COVID-19 vaccines till date (Covaxin, Covishield and Sputnik V). The data
should clarify: (a) the dates of all procurement orders placed by the Central
Government for all 3 vaccines; (b) the quantity of vaccines ordered as on each
date; and (c) the projected date of supply; and
An outline for how and when the Central Government seeks to vaccinate the
remaining population in phases 1, 2 and 3.
The steps being taken by the Central Government to ensure drug availability
for mucormycosis.
42 While filing its affidavit, UoI shall also ensure that copies of all the relevant
documents and file notings reflecting its thinking and culminating in the vaccination
PART F
32
policy are also annexed on the vaccination policy. Hence, we direct the UoI to file its
affidavit within 2 weeks.
43 We also note that UoI‟s stated position in its affidavit dated 9 May 2021 is that
every State/UT Government shall provide vaccination free of cost to its population. It
is important that individual State/UT Governments confirm/deny this position before
this Court. Further, if they have decided to vaccinate their population for free then, as
a matter of principle, it is important that this policy is annexed to their affidavit, so
that the population within their territories can be assured of their right to be
vaccinated for free at a State vaccination centre. Hence, we direct each of the
State/UT Governments to also file an affidavit within 2 weeks, where they shall clarify
their position and put on record their individual policies.
……….….....................................................J.
[Dr Dhananjaya Y Chandrachud]
……..….….....................................................J.
[L Nageswara Rao]
……..….….....................................................J.
[S Ravindra Bhat]
New Delhi;
May 31, 2021
