Wed Nov 27 19:50:42 UTC 2024: ## Delhi High Court Slams AAP Government for Rejecting Central Health Funds

**NEW DELHI, November 28, 2024** – The Delhi High Court sharply criticized the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government on Wednesday for refusing to accept central government funds for the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY) health insurance scheme. The court expressed astonishment that the Delhi government, described as financially strapped, would reject ₹5 lakh in annual health coverage per family.

The rebuke came during a hearing on a petition filed by seven BJP MPs. The MPs argued that Delhi is the only Union Territory not participating in PM-JAY, leaving its underprivileged citizens without crucial health insurance and forcing many into financial hardship due to medical emergencies.

Justice Manmohan stated, “You may have a difference of opinion, but in this case, you are refusing aid… You have no money actually… (and) are refusing ₹5 lakh (health insurance) for the citizens. I am shocked.” The court highlighted the internal conflict within the Delhi administration, noting that the Health Minister and Secretary are reportedly not communicating.

The AAP government, in previous statements, has countered that its own free healthcare program, offering up to ₹1 crore in coverage, renders PM-JAY unnecessary. This stance was previously criticized by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who accused Delhi and West Bengal of prioritizing political interests over public health.

The High Court urged the Delhi government to address the internal issues and cooperate with the central government to implement PM-JAY, emphasizing that the scheme targets a specific segment of the population. The case will be heard again on November 28.

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