High Court Reserves Order on Gautam Gambhir’s Plea in COVID Drug Case

The Delhi High Court has reserved its decision on a plea by Indian cricket team head coach and former MP Gautam Gambhir. The plea seeks the dismissal of a criminal complaint alleging illegal stocking and distribution of COVID-19 drugs during the pandemic by Gambhir, his foundation, and family members.

Justice Neena Bansal Krishna reviewed submissions from the counsel representing Gambhir and the Drug Control Department. The complaint, lodged by the Drug Control Department, accuses Gambhir and his foundation of violating sections of the Drugs and Cosmetics Act related to the unauthorized distribution of drugs.

Gambhir's defense argues that the distribution was meant purely for aiding the needy, not for commercial purposes. Meanwhile, the prosecution contends the drugs were distributed without a valid license. The matter awaits further proceedings in the trial court in September.

(With inputs from agencies.)