New Delhi: The Supreme Court of India has directed the central government to develop a policy to provide compensation to individuals who suffer serious adverse effects after receiving a COVID-19 vaccine. The move aims to support people who experience rare but severe medical complications following vaccination.
A bench of Justices Vikram Nath and Sandeep Mehta asked the Union government to establish a “No fault compensation policy.” Under this system, individuals affected by serious vaccine-related side effects could receive compensation without needing to prove negligence by authorities or vaccine manufacturers.
The court noted that India’s existing system for monitoring Adverse Events Following Immunisation (AEFI) will continue to function. It also suggested that relevant data on vaccine side effects should be periodically made public to ensure transparency and public awareness.
At the same time, the bench clarified that the creation of a compensation framework does not mean the government has admitted any fault or liability regarding the country’s COVID-19 vaccination programme. The judges also stated that people would still have the right to pursue legal action separately if they choose.
The direction came during hearings on petitions claiming deaths and serious health complications allegedly linked to COVID-19 vaccination. Petitioners had requested compensation and stronger mechanisms to address such cases.
Legal experts say the proposed policy could help provide financial relief to affected families while also strengthening confidence in the country’s public health system. The government is expected to work on the policy framework and present details in due course.
