No person can be forced to get vaccinated against their wishes: Centre to SC

The Centre said this in its affidavit filed in response to a plea by NGO Evara Foundation

The Union government has told the Supreme Court that its guidelines do not envisage any forcible Covid-19 vaccination without obtaining consent of the concerned individual.

It reiterated its stand that no person can be vaccinated against his or her wishes.

In an affidavit to a PIL filed by Evara Foundation, the Centre, however, emphasised that Covid-19 vaccination is in 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.

"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," it said.

The government also said it has formulated Operational Guidelines for Covid-19 vaccination, which stated all beneficiaries are to be informed about adverse events which may occur after administering of vaccine.

Also read: What the dip in Covid cases in Delhi, Mumbai means

It also told the court a campaign 'Har Ghar Dastak Abhiyaan' has been launched on November 3, last year to ensure 100 per cent coverage of eligible beneficiaries with first and second doses.

With regard to suggestions for treating care providers as essential workers, the Centre has submitted that in its letter of September 22, 2021, it has advised all States and UTs to vaccinate bedridden or beneficiaries with extremely restricted mobility or disability and/or special needs along with their care givers at their place of residence using mobile vaccination teams.

In response to the suggestion regarding Co-WIN app and portal being made fully accessible, the Centre has submitted that it is already implementing features in Co-WIN portal to make it more accessible to persons with disabilities.

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