SC directs Centre to revisit current vaccine policy, says it creates disparity

Discrimination cannot be made between different classes of citizens who are similarly circumstanced, the Bench said.

The Supreme Court has directed the Centre to revisit its COVID-19 vaccine pricing policy, saying it would prima facie result in a detriment to the right to public health. A Bench headed by Justice D.Y. Chandrachud said, as of date, the manufacturers have suggested two different prices, a lower price which is applicable to the Centre and a higher price which is applicable to the quantities purchased by State governments. The apex court said compelling State governments to negotiate with manufacturers on grounds of promoting competition and making it attractive for new vaccine manufacturers will result in serious detriment to those in the age group of 18 to 44 years, who will be vaccinated by State governments.