Today, On 28th February, The Delhi Government informed the Supreme Court that it is proceeding with the implementation of the Ayushman Bharat scheme and sought to withdraw its Special Leave Petition (SLP). The scheme aims to strengthen healthcare infrastructure and improve access to medical services. The decision aligns with the Pradhan Mantri – Ayushman Bharat Health Infrastructure Mission (PM-ABHIM) to enhance public health facilities.
New Delhi: The Delhi government informed the Supreme Court that it would proceed with the implementation of the PM-Ayushman Bharat Health Infrastructure Mission (PM-ABHIM) scheme in the national capital.
This statement was made before a bench of Justices B.R. Gavai and P.K. Mishra. The counsel for the Delhi government requested to withdraw its petition challenging the December 24, 2024, directive from the Delhi High Court, which mandated the Delhi government to sign a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Union health ministry by January 5 for the implementation of the PM-ABHIM scheme.
The counsel stated to the apex court,
“We are moving forward with the implementation of the scheme, so we would like to withdraw this SLP (special leave petition),”
The bench granted permission for the Delhi government to withdraw its petition.
The recent assembly elections resulted in the BJP replacing the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government in Delhi. During a hearing on January 17, the Supreme Court had paused the High Court’s directive for the Delhi government to sign the MoU by January 5.
The top court also issued notices to the Centre and other parties, requesting their responses to the Delhi government’s plea.
The plea argued that the PM-ABHIM scheme primarily designed for rural areas and the country’s interiors. It noted that in Delhi, the Aam Aadmi Mohalla Clinics were already operating 529 local centers staffed by qualified medical practitioners.
In its December 24 order, the High Court referenced minutes from a meeting held in December 2024 and emphasized the need for full implementation of the PM-ABHIM scheme to prevent Delhi residents from missing out on funds and facilities.
The court stated,
“The non-implementation of the scheme in Delhi, when 33 states and Union territories have already adopted it, would not be justified.”
It directed that,
“The MoU must be signed between the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India, and the GNCTD by January 5, 2025,” and added, “This MoU shall be signed irrespective of the model code of conduct, as it has been monitored by this court and is intended for the benefit of Delhi’s citizens.”
The Ayushman Bharat Scheme is India’s main health insurance program, offering financial support for secondary and higher-level healthcare to poor families. In Delhi, its implementation has faced issues due to disagreements between the central and state governments. The disputes include funding, identifying beneficiaries, and involving private hospitals.
Case Title: GOVERNMENT OF NCT OF DELHI Versus UNION OF INDIA AND ORS., Diary No. 921-2025