Supreme Court Pauses Delhi Ayushman Bharat Scheme Order

Aakhir Tak – In Shorts:

1. The Supreme Court has paused a Delhi High Court order on the Ayushman Bharat scheme in Delhi.
2. The order directed the Delhi government to sign an MoU with the Centre for its implementation.
3. Delhi government filed a petition challenging the High Court’s directive.
4. The Delhi government believes that implementing the scheme would downgrade existing health services.
5. Ayushman Bharat provides health cover of up to ₹5 lakh per family annually, particularly for seniors.

Aakhir Tak – In Depth:

Supreme Court’s Stay:
On Friday, the Supreme Court of India paused a directive issued by the Delhi High Court, which had instructed the Delhi government to sign an agreement with the Centre to implement the Ayushman Bharat scheme in the national capital. The Supreme Court’s decision came after the Delhi government appealed, stating that the High Court had overstepped its boundaries by redefining the power-sharing between the Delhi government and the Centre.

Delhi Government’s Opposition:
Delhi’s counsel, Abhishek Manu Singhvi, argued before the Supreme Court that the High Court had essentially forced the Delhi government into policy decisions. He questioned how the High Court could compel the Delhi government to sign an MoU with the Centre on such matters, emphasizing that it was a policy decision, not a judicial directive. He further pointed out that this move infringed upon the Delhi government’s authority to govern its healthcare framework.

Ayushman Bharat Scheme Details:
The Ayushman Bharat scheme, launched by the government, offers cashless healthcare coverage of up to ₹5 lakh per family annually, particularly targeted at senior citizens above the age of 70. Under this scheme, beneficiaries can avail themselves of a wide range of healthcare services, including major surgeries, chronic illness treatments, and specialized healthcare services. The scheme covers over 1,500 medical procedures, including knee and hip replacements, cardiac surgeries, and cancer treatments.

The scheme focuses on improving access to secondary and tertiary care, which is crucial as people age. Once beneficiaries are enrolled, they can receive treatment at empanelled hospitals without any out-of-pocket expenses. The scheme’s design is aimed at offering comprehensive healthcare services without the financial burden on senior citizens.

Delhi Government’s Concerns:
The Delhi government has expressed serious concerns about the potential impact of implementing the Ayushman Bharat scheme. They argue that introducing such a central government-led plan may undermine the health initiatives already in place in Delhi, which have been tailored to the needs of its residents. They worry that the scheme may result in a decrease in the quality of healthcare available to the people of Delhi.

Aakhir Tak – Key Takeaways to Remember:

1. The Supreme Court has halted the Delhi High Court’s order directing the implementation of the Ayushman Bharat scheme.
2. Delhi government challenged the High Court’s order in the Supreme Court.
3. Ayushman Bharat provides up to ₹5 lakh of health cover for senior citizens each year.
4. The scheme covers over 1,500 medical procedures, including crucial surgeries and cancer treatment.
5. Delhi government opposes the scheme, fearing it could compromise existing local healthcare services.

Aakhir Tak Editor-in-Chief

See Full Bio