NEW DELHI: The Delhi High Court has asked the central government to submit a status report on the development of policies related to sample collection, collection centres, and transport protocols—citing concerns that the “next Covid-19 pandemic is far from over.”
Justice Anish Dayal, presiding over a single-judge bench on May 28, emphasized the urgency of the matter in light of recent reports suggesting that Covid-19 remains active in the community. The court noted the absence of an update from the Centre on the outcome of a key meeting held nearly a year ago on May 30, 2023.
“Although the formation of expert sub-committees suggests some progress, the absence of clarity on follow-up actions after that meeting raises serious concerns—particularly given ongoing reports of community transmission,” the court remarked. The matter has been scheduled for further hearing on July 18.
The court was hearing a contempt petition filed by Dr. Rohit Jain, who alleged that the Centre had failed to comply with a Delhi High Court order dated January 27, 2023. At that time, a division bench had disposed of Dr. Jain’s plea by directing the central government to treat his concerns as a formal representation and respond within 12 weeks with a reasoned decision.
Dr. Jain claimed that despite the court’s order, the government had yet to frame any guidelines setting minimum standards for sample collection procedures, including the functioning of collection centres and transport mechanisms.
Following the court’s earlier intervention, a meeting was held under the chairmanship of the Additional Director General of Health Services on May 30, 2023. Dr. Jain was invited to participate. During the meeting, a decision was made to constitute four expert sub-committees specializing in pathology, biochemistry, haematology, and microbiology. These committees were tasked with defining standard operating procedures (SOPs) for sample collection and transport, including appropriate storage protocols.
The court noted that although it appreciates that steps may have been taken and procedures may be in place, it is essential for the authorities to formally place the details on record to ensure transparency and accountability.
As the world remains alert to evolving public health threats, the court underscored the importance of proactive governance and preparedness in the face of emerging infectious diseases.
