Frame policy to identify, compensate kin of those who died of COVID-19 after-effects: Kerala HC
The Kerala High Court has directed the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) to formulate a “rapid” policy to identify those who died after the impact of COVID-19 vaccination and compensate their dependents.
Justice V G Arun directed the NDMA to take necessary action “as soon as possible”, but within three months of the September 1 order.
The direction was issued after Justice Arun said that he came across three such cases in his present jurisdiction, in which it was claimed that a person who had undergone the COVID-19 vaccination had died after.
“Hence, even though the numbers are very less, there are instances where people have succumbed to the effects of post-vaccination. In such circumstances, Respondents 2 (NDMA) and 8 (Ministry of Health) are bound to identify such cases and formulate a policy to pay compensation to the dependents of the victim,” the court said.
It further directed, “The second respondent (NDMA) is directed to identify the cases of death due to post-COVID-19 vaccination effects and formulate policy/guidelines for compensation to the dependents of the victim. Necessary work in this regard shall be done as expeditiously as possible and at any rate within three months.” The court also noted in its order that the document on record “prima facie” shows that the death of the petitioner’s husband was adverse after vaccination because of the events.
The order came after the Center informed the court that no such policy has been framed so far.
The court was hearing the widow’s plea, seeking direction from the respondents (central and state government officials) to pay ex-gratia amount to her and her children, which was given to the families of those who have died of COVID-19.
