New Delhi, March 11: The Supreme Court has issued a significant directive regarding COVID-19 vaccination cases. The court has instructed the central government to establish a ‘no-fault compensation system’ for individuals who experience severe adverse effects after receiving the COVID-19 vaccine.
The Supreme Court stated that this system should be implemented through the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. The aim of this policy is to assist those who have faced serious adverse events following vaccination.
The court clarified that the new policy should include provisions for compensation in cases where severe side effects occur post-vaccination. However, it also mentioned that the existing mechanism for monitoring adverse events following vaccination will continue to operate.
Furthermore, the Supreme Court indicated that relevant data related to this monitoring system could be made public periodically to ensure transparency and provide accurate information to the public.
The court also commented on issues related to scientific assessment, noting that several scientific and technical arrangements are already in place for investigating and evaluating vaccination-related cases. Therefore, there is no need for the court to appoint a new expert committee for this matter.
Additionally, the Supreme Court clarified that the establishment of a ‘no-fault compensation framework’ should not be interpreted as an admission of responsibility or fault by the central government or any other authority.
The court emphasized that despite this decision, the legal avenues available to individuals under the law will not be closed. Affected individuals can still pursue other legal options if necessary.