Supreme Court dismisses plea seeking free test, treatment for coronavirus infection

NEW DELHI: The Supreme Court Tuesday dismissed a plea seeking direction to the Centre, all states and Union territories to provide free of cost treatment for coronavirus infection till Covid-19 pandemic is contained, saying it is for the government to take a call on it. “Government has to decide on who to give free treatment. We do not have any funds with us,” a bench headed by Justice N V Ramana said.

“Do not create publicity interest litigation,” the bench, also comprising Justices S K Kaul and B R Gavai, said.

The bench, which heard the matter through video-conferencing, observed that government hospitals across the country are giving free treatment to coronavirus infected patients.

“We think this case should close,” it said.

The top court was hearing a plea file