Mincing no words in deprecating callous and negligent conduct of the authorities in complying with its directions to supply 10,000 Remdesivir vials to Nagpur, the High Court on Wednesday blasted the authorities while refusing to adjourn the hearing unless the order of April 19 directing State to supply 10,000 vials of Remdesivir injection was complied with. A division bench consisting of Justice Sunil Shukre and Justice S M Modak made their displeasure quite clear over tone and tenor of the affidavits filed by FDA and district administration virtually washing their hands and passing the buck to pharmaceutical companies denying existence of any State-level panel. After perusing the same, the High Court found that both the affidavits were contradictory.

 

“You are violating fundamental rights of the people,” the High Court observed tersely, and sternly asked them as to whose business was it to procure Remdesivir. It noted that authorities were shirking responsibilities. In very strong words, the court rebuked the State authorities while lamenting over the plight of COVID-19 patients in the State. “If you do not feel ashamed of yourself, then we feel ashamed of being a part of this nasty and evil society. We cannot do anything for the unfortunate patients of Maharashtra. This is how we are shirking our responsibilities. You are neglecting and ignoring our patients. We give you solution, you do not follow it. You do not give us solution. What absolute nonsense is going on here,” the bench asked angrily. Senior Counsel M G Bhangde, appearing for the State, candidly and quite forthrightly informed about difficulty in compiling information and collating the facts, and put forth the real picture before the court in presence of officials.

 

The High Court, while lashing out at the authorities, directed them to take corrective steps and ensure compliance of the order and provide succour to COVID-19 patients eagerly awaiting Remdesivir vials and adequate supply of Oxygen. The physical hearing that commenced at 4 pm witnessed some more fireworks. The High Court also noted about instance of the alleged malpractice of a Gujarat-based company where it was reported that the company was planning to export 60,000 vials of Remdesivir outside India despite a ban on export. The High Court noted that such incident would only indicate the possibility of indulgence in malpractices by some unscrupulous dealers, suppliers and manufacturers. It is always advisable for the authorities to take precautions and periodical checks, the court remarked.