The Centre has informed the Supreme Court that COVID-19 vaccination is a more
significant public benefit considering the ongoing pandemic.
Still, no one is compelled to get a vaccination against their will.
According to the Center, the guidelines released from the Union Health Ministry do not
contemplate forcible vaccinations without the individual’s consent.
The response from the Central government was based on a PIL that sought priority for
COVID-19 vaccines for those who have disabilities in their area of residence, as they are at
an increased chance of being affected by COVID-19.
The Supreme Court will hear the case to listen to the point today (January 17, 2022).
“The direction and guidelines released by the government of India and Ministry of Health
and Family Welfare do not envisage any forcible vaccination without obtaining the
concerned individual’s consent.
It is further submitted that vaccination for COVID-19 is of enormous public interest
because of the ongoing pandemic.
Therefore, it is duly advised, advertised, and communicated through various print and
social media platforms that all citizens should get vaccinated.
Systems and processes have been designed to facilitate the same. However, no person can
be forced to be vaccinated against their wishes,” the affidavit from Centre said.
Not mandatory to carry a vaccination certificate.
Concerning the exemption of disabled persons from having to produce vaccination
certificates, The Centre declared that it had not issued an SOP that requires them to carry
the certificate of immunization for any reason.
The Central government has informed the highest court that 23678 doses have been given
to persons with disabilities who have chosen to identify themselves as disabled with their
unique Disability ID Card or Disability Certificate to be registered during their vaccine.
Through its official letter on September 22nd, 2021, the government of India has been
advising everyone in all States and Union Territories to vaccinate bedridden or those with
severely restricted mobility, disabilities, or particular needs, along with caregivers at their
places of residence by mobile vaccination teams.
It added.
The government also suggested that the Co-WIN portal and app be fully accessible.
The government said it has already implemented new Co-WIN’s Co-WIN portal features to
make it more accessible for disabled people.
The petition made by Evara Foundation, a disability rights group, asked for direction to
focus on the steps needed to facilitate access to vaccination for those who are disabled to
safeguard them against COVID-19.
The plea had claimed it was in one press release issued by the Indian Medical Association
(IMA). The association had stated that vaccination should take place in those who have
disabilities.
The plea also said that making an appointment at the location of a specific vaccination
center is a highly technical procedure, and people who are disabled face difficulties when it
comes to getting vaccinations.
Inviting vaccinations at the door of disabled people and parents, the appeal was that
visiting vaccination centers during lockdowns across various States is also a difficult job for
these people.
