In Brief

The Supreme Court examined India's Liberalized Vaccination Policy introduced in May 2021 for the 18-44 age group, which shifted responsibility from central procurement (free vaccines) to state governments and private hospitals (paid vaccines). The Court held that while the executive enjoys wider discretion during public health emergencies, judicial review remains necessary to ensure policies meet constitutional standards of equality (Article 14) and right to life (Article 21). The Court found the policy prima facie arbitrary and irrational, as it burdened states and individuals despite the 18-44 group experiencing severe COVID-19 outcomes. Key concerns included differential pricing (Central Government paid Rs 150 per dose; states/private entities paid Rs 300-400), inadequate vaccine distribution criteria, insufficient prioritization of vulnerable groups, and digital divide exclusion affecting rural and marginalized populations. The Court directed the Union of India to undertake a fresh policy review, provide detailed clarifications on procurement, pricing, logistics, and digital accessibility, and required state governments to confirm free vaccination commitments in writing.

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