Munmun Kaur
Published On: January 17, 2022 at 11:05 IST
The Central government through its affidavit submitted to the Supreme Court that the direction and guidelines released by the Government of India and Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, do not envisage any forcible vaccination without consent.
The Centre had filed an affidavit as to its response to a plea by NGO Evara Foundation which sought easier access to vaccination for persons with disabilities.
The affidavit further read that the vaccination for Covid-19 is of larger public interest and it has been duly advised, advertised, and communicated through various print and social media platforms that all citizens should get vaccinated. Although, no person can be forced to get vaccinated without their consent.
Responding to the issue of exempting persons with disabilities from carrying vaccination certificates, the Ministry, in the affidavit said, “It is most respectfully submitted that the Government of India has not issued any SOPs which make carrying of vaccination certificate mandatory for any purpose.”
The Union of India informed the Court that a total of 23678 doses have been administered to disabled persons who have voluntarily chosen to be identified as such by using their Unique Disability ID Card/Disability Certificate for registration at the time of their vaccination.
In response to the suggestion made regarding exemption from masks and face covers, the Government of India stated that the practice of wearing masks is in line with the guidelines provided by World Health Organization. Therefore, in the larger public interest, it is advisable that the use of masks or face covers be universally followed.