On the 2nd of June, Supreme Court slammed the Centre’s decision of non-extension of free vaccine to the 18-45 age group. The Court also demanded a breakdown of the budgetary allocation of Rs.35,000 Crore for vaccine procurement and required all states and UTs to file an affidavit confirming whether or not they intend to provide free vaccine to all irrespective of age.

The SC also demanded data on rural vaccination as it apprehended that vaccination so far was urban-centric.

On Saturday, a free vaccination drive at Chhatrasal Stadium was announced by Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal. However, the facility would exclude those below the age of 45 and hasn’t been functional so far due to a shortage of vaccines.

The stock will not be replenished before June 10, according to Central Government’s intimation to the Delhi Government. Second dosage of vaccines for 45+ year-olds are now available.

On the 26th of May, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal inaugurated the first drive-through vaccination booth of Delhi at Vegas Mall, Dwarka. In a trend that was adapted quickly, many private hospitals in Delhi and NCR have set up drive-in vaccination facilities that are also preferred by citizens to get a jab. However, these private ventures are paid and raise questions about the ethicality of selling essential healthcare at high rates.

On Sunday Morning, Delhi Health Minister Satyender Jain inaugurated a two-day drive-through vaccination drive at DLF Mall, Saket. Covishield vaccines were available here for Rs.1,100 per dose. Similarly, Madhukar Rainbow Children’s Hospital is offering Covishield at Rs.1,100 at its week-long drive-through vaccination drive.

It is important that the government centres stick to a policy of free vaccination in an attempt to include the country’s economically weaker sections in its Vaccination Drive. The Centre’s response to SC’s orders would be crucial in this regard.