The statements by Senior Advocate Anand Grover, representing the petitioner NGO, and Additional Solicitor General Aishwarya Bhati, representing the Center, were recognized by the bench, which was led by Chief Justice D Y Chandrachud and comprised of Justices JB Pardiwala and Manoj Misra. The bench stated that although there had been a shortage of these necessary medications due to the COVID-19 outbreak, things had since stabilized and there are now enough medications accessible.
Even with the increase in medication availability, antiretroviral medication quality is still a major worry. In order to make sure the drugs given to HIV patients fulfill the essential quality criteria, senior lawyer Anand Grover underlined the significance of talking about this matter with the Center and NACO. To promote a comprehensive conversation and address all relevant issues, the court suggested that this meeting be held at a senior level in two weeks.
For the treatment of individuals infected with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), antiretroviral therapy (ART) is essential. Anti-HIV medications are used as part of this therapy to control the virus, enhance quality of life, and lengthen the life expectancy of individuals with HIV/AIDS. These medications’ accessibility and quality are essential for the effectiveness of the treatment.The PIL brought to light how seriously the treatment of people living with HIV/AIDS is hampered by the lack of medications at AntiRetroViral Therapy Centers under the management of NACO. With the goal of ensuring that patients with HIV receive continuous and efficient treatment, the Supreme Court’s recommendation attempts to sufficiently address concerns about the supply and efficacy of antiretroviral medications.
In order to make sure that all issues are addressed in-depth, the Chief Justice urged allowing stakeholders to offer suggestions following the suggested meeting. The goal of this action is to encourage cooperation between NGOs, NACO, and the government in order to enhance the treatment options available to HIV patients in India as a whole.
The aggressive stance taken by the Supreme Court aims to guarantee that HIV patients have continuous, high-quality access to vital antiretroviral medications. Through fostering communication among the Center, NACO, and non-governmental organizations, the court hopes to tackle current problems and enhance the quality of care for HIV/AIDS patients.
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MEDICAL DIALOGUES
