Supreme Court Extends PM Insurance Scheme to Private Doctors Who Died of COVID
Families of Doctors Cannot Be Denied Compensation, Says Apex Court
Judgment Strengthens Recognition of Pandemic Sacrifices
By Our Legal Reporter
New Delhi: December 11, 2025:
In a landmark judgment, the Supreme Court of India has ruled that private doctors who worked during the COVID-19 pandemic and later died due to the infection are entitled to compensation under the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Package (PMGKP) Insurance Scheme for Health Workers Fighting COVID-19.
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The ruling, delivered by a bench of Justice P.S. Narasimha and Justice R. Mahadevan, overturns the Bombay High Court’s earlier decision, which had excluded private doctors from the scheme. The Court emphasized that families of doctors who sacrificed their lives during the pandemic cannot be told there is no compensation.
Background of the Case
- The PMGKP Insurance Scheme was launched in March 2020 to provide ₹50 lakh insurance coverage to frontline health workers fighting COVID-19.
- Initially, the scheme was interpreted to cover only government doctors and requisitioned staff.
- Families of private doctors who died during the pandemic approached courts after being denied compensation.
- The Bombay High Court had ruled that private doctors were not eligible, leading to widespread criticism.
- The Supreme Court has now clarified that all doctors who worked during the pandemic, whether in government or private hospitals, are covered.
Court’s Observations
- The Court noted that there was a requisition of doctors as a matter of principle under law, and whether a particular doctor was formally requisitioned or not should be determined by evidence.
- Justice Narasimha observed: “Doctors who sacrificed during COVID period cannot be told, their families cannot be told, that compensation is not available.”
- The ruling ensures that families of private doctors who died of COVID-19 while serving patients are entitled to the same benefits as government doctors.
Why This Matters
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- Recognition of Sacrifice: Private doctors played a crucial role during the pandemic, often working without adequate protective gear.
- Financial Relief: Families of deceased doctors will now receive ₹50 lakh compensation, easing financial burdens.
- Legal Clarity: The judgment sets a precedent for inclusive interpretation of welfare schemes.
Impact on Families
- Thousands of families who lost loved ones during the pandemic will now be able to claim compensation.
- The ruling provides emotional recognition and financial support to families who felt neglected.
- It also restores dignity to the contributions of private medical practitioners.
Broader Implications
- Healthcare Policy: The judgment highlights the need for inclusive welfare schemes that cover all frontline workers.
- Legal Precedent: Courts may adopt broader interpretations of government schemes in future crises.
- Public Trust: The ruling strengthens confidence in the judiciary’s role in protecting vulnerable groups.
Global Context
- In countries like the UK and US, compensation schemes for healthcare workers during COVID included both public and private practitioners.
- India’s move aligns with global best practices, ensuring fairness and recognition of all medical professionals.
Expert Opinions
- Medical Associations: Welcomed the ruling, calling it a long-overdue recognition of private doctors’ sacrifices.
- Legal Experts: Said the judgment reinforces the principle of equality and non-discrimination in welfare schemes.
- Public Health Advocates: Stressed that inclusive policies are essential in future pandemics.
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Conclusion
The Supreme Court’s ruling is a historic step in honouring the sacrifices of private doctors during the COVID-19 pandemic. By extending the PM Insurance Scheme to them, the Court has ensured that families receive both recognition and financial relief.
This judgment not only corrects an injustice but also sets a precedent for inclusive healthcare policies in India.
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