THE JHARKHAND STORY DESK
New Delhi, Jan 17: The Supreme Court on Friday stayed a Delhi High Court order directing the Delhi government to sign a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Union Health Ministry by January 5, 2025, for implementing the PM-Ayushman Bharat Health Infrastructure Mission (PM-ABHIM).
A bench comprising Justices B.R. Gavai and Augustine George Masih issued notices to the Centre and others, seeking their response to the Delhi government’s plea challenging the high court’s December 24, 2024, directive.
Senior advocate Abhishek Manu Singhvi, representing the Delhi government, argued that the high court could not compel the AAP government to sign the MoU on a policy matter. He questioned the validity of forcing the state government into an agreement with the Centre, emphasizing that such decisions fall under policy discretion.
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The Delhi High Court had earlier pointed out that the full implementation of PM-ABHIM was necessary to ensure that residents of Delhi receive the associated benefits, especially as the scheme had already been adopted by 33 states and union territories.
It directed the signing of the MoU, stating that the decision should not be delayed even if the model code of conduct was in effect.
The Delhi government filed its petition through advocate Talha Abdul Rahman, challenging the high court’s observation.
