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The Union of India has informed the Delhi High Court that Zydus Cadila which is developing DNA vaccines has concluded its Clinical Trials for children between the age group of 12-18 years and the same will be available soon.

The affidavit was filed in response to a plea seeking vaccination of children between the ages of 12-17 years, in Delhi as well as to prioritise vaccination amongst parents having children up to 17 years of age, especially small children, newborns to 12 years of age.

The division bench comprising Chief Justice DN Patel and Justice Jyoti Singh had sought the Unions response on the plea filed by Tia Gupta  which averred that the vaccination policy of India against COVID 19 has failed to factor in children or parents of children who are a vulnerable section of society, for vaccination against the deadly virus.

On perusal of the Union Government's affidavit and ASG Chetan Sharma's submissions that the vaccine will be administered to children as soon as it is available, the bench adjourned the matter till September 3.

The plea filed through Advocates Bihu Sharma and Abhinav Mukhrejee  along with the prayer of  giving priority in vaccination to parents of children who are residing in Delhi and directing the respondents to put in place appropriate vaccine protocol for children residing in Delhi has also prayed for directing the respondents to formulate a comprehensive National Plan with respect to children covering all aspects of their protection from the ill effects of the pandemic.

Senior Advocate Kailsh Vasdev appeared for the petitioner and ASG Chetan Sharma appeared for the Union Government.

Case Title: Tia Gupta and Anr v. Union of India and Ors| W.P.(C) 5581/2021