New Delhi: The Kerala High Court on Wednesday has made serious observations on deaths or adverse events related to Covid-19 vaccines. The court was hearing the case of Sayeeda KA vs Union of India. The Court called for urgent action from the Central Government and the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA). They should formulate guidelines for disbursement of compensation to the families of people who died due to reactions to the Covid-19 vaccine.

This is what the Court said

“This is a national calamity which we faced. Of course, I do understand the case is very genuine and it has to be dealt with. As far as the Central government is concerned, similar issues are cropping up in other states also. There has to be an effort to formulate a proper guideline, a proper scheme for compensating these persons and that is being done. Let them bring on record what steps have been taken so that I can pass a reasoned and considered order, rather than an order in vacuum. It is not a laughing matter, I consider it to be very serious”, he orally observed.

Court acknowledged the seriousness of the petition

The Court deeply acknowledged the seriousness of the petition. The submission made by the petitioner sought the pacing of the procedure of redeeming compensation. As the people are facing severe consequences owing to the death of the earning member of the family.

“I find the apprehension expressed by the learned counsel to be well founded. The situation requires urgent action on the part of the National Disaster Management Authority”, the Court said in its order.

Who was the petitioner?

The Court was hearing the petition of a woman who lost her husband, following the administering of the Covid-19 vaccine in August 2021.

What did the petition sought? 

The petitioner sought that the Court should issue directions to NDMA for issuing guidelines within a fixed timeframe. The reason being there are many others who are stuck in a similar situation as the petitioner.

MoHFW formulating comprehensive guidelines

There are identical issues pertaining in various states informed the Central Government Counsel. The cases of adverse effects following inoculation of Covid-19 vaccines have popped up throughout India.

The counsel further informed that the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare is in the process of formulation. He said that the guidelines will be placed before the court within a period of two weeks.

Counsel of the petitioner

The petitioner is being represented by advocates Manumon A and Prabhu KN. The matter will be up in court on August 30.