HC Upholds Odisha Govt Decision On Non-Renewal Of Licenses Of On-Campus Medicine Retailers

Cuttack: The Orissa High Court has upheld the decision of the state government not to extend the licenses of on-campus medicine stores set up in government medical college and hospitals.

Delivering its order on a petition challenging the move of the state Health department, the Court upheld the decision of non-renewal of licenses of on-campus medicine stores at government medical college and hospitals as well as district headquarters hospitals (DHHs), SDHs, and CHCs.

Proprietors and owners of various on-campus medicine stores had challenged the order of the Odisha Health department not to extend the licenses of the any on-campus medicine stores as the government started providing free medicines to patients at public health facilities under its Niramaya Scheme.

The High Court in its verdict said that the free medicinal care policy by the state marks a monumental step forward in prioritizing public health and welfare.

“By providing essential healthcare services and medications at no cost to citizens, this policy demonstrates a commitment to ensuring access to healthcare for all, regardless of socioeconomic status. It not only addresses immediate healthcare needs but also contributes to long-term benefits such as improved health outcomes, reduced healthcare disparities, and enhanced overall quality of life for the population,” the HC observed.

Additionally, such a policy aligns with principles of social justice and equity, promoting the fundamental right to healthcare for all individuals In the current scenario, although the involved parties are at a disadvantage, their plight is outweighed by the broader objective of welfarism. While the petitioners may face challenges, their situation does not pose a threat to their constitutional rights, it said.

“Therefore, in light of the discussion above, keeping the settled principles of law in mind and for the reasons given above, this Court is of the considered view that the impugned order warrants no interference,” the HC said in its order.