On Monday, the Supreme Court dismissed a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) that expressed concerns over alleged side effects of COVID-19 vaccines. The petition, which referenced reports of blood clotting similar to those observed in the UK, was rejected by the court as lacking any real merit and labeled as a sensational attempt to stir unwarranted fear.
Chief Justice of India (CJI) DV Chandrachud, who led the bench, underscored the dangers of not getting vaccinated. "Please understand what the side effects would be of not taking the vaccine," he cautioned, reminding everyone of the critical role vaccines have played in controlling the pandemic.
During the hearing, Justice JB Pardiwallah probed the petitioner’s personal experience with vaccination. When the lawyer admitted to being vaccinated without any adverse effects, the court's doubts over the basis of the PIL intensified, leading to its dismissal.
The petitioner had sought an investigation into AstraZeneca’s COVISHIELD vaccine, citing known risks of Thrombosis with Thrombocytopenia Syndrome (TTS) as acknowledged in the UK. Additionally, the plea called for the creation of a Vaccine Damage Payment System and compensation for families of those allegedly harmed by vaccine-related complications.
In its ruling, CJI Chandrachud made it clear that if there were legitimate claims, they should be pursued through class action suits rather than PILs under Article 32, which are reserved for protecting fundamental rights. The court’s message was clear: while it's essential to address vaccine safety, it is equally important to not undermine public health efforts with baseless fears.
This case serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between raising legitimate concerns and avoiding the spread of misinformation, especially on critical issues like vaccination during a global pandemic.
