The Delhi High Court has concluded proceedings on a PIL regarding the alleged non-availability of medicines at the Rajan Babu Institute of Pulmonary Medicine and Tuberculosis after being informed that current stocks will last a few weeks and additional supplies are forthcoming.
The Central government and the Mission Director of the Delhi State Health Mission filed affidavits detailing the drug stock levels in Delhi and future supply plans.
Earlier this year, NGO Social Jurist filed the PIL, alleging that the hospital’s sole ultrasound machine was non-functional and essential medicines had been unavailable for six months. Advocate Ashok Agarwal, representing the petitioner, argued that poor patients were forced to buy medicines from outside amid the shortage.
A bench of Acting Chief Justice Manmohan and Justice Manmeet PS Arora disposed of the petition on May 21, noting that the current stock of 4 FDC (A) drugs would last a month, 3 FDC (A) drugs would last three weeks, and more supplies were in the pipeline.
The Centre had previously assured the court that proactive measures were being taken to expedite the supply of anti-TB drugs to ensure patient care was not affected. Regarding the ultrasound machine, MCD counsel confirmed it was fully functional. The MCD also stated that a CT scan machine was unnecessary as patients below the poverty line are referred to Hindu Rao Hospital for free scans, while others are charged Rs 1,500, typically covered by an NGO.
On April 23, the court had directed the MCD to expedite the procurement of an ultrasound machine for the TB hospital and ensure it was operational within 15 days. The court also requested central and city authorities to clarify the availability of TB medicines amid allegations of a global shortage.
Noting a “disconnect between the centre, Delhi government, and MCD,” the court had instructed counsel for the Union and State government to provide updates on TB medicine availability.
(with PTI inputs)
