The Delhi High Court on Monday declined to stay the ongoing trial court proceedings against Indian cricket team head coach Gautam Gambhir, his charitable foundation, and others facing allegations of illegally stocking and distributing COVID-19 drugs during the pandemic.
Justice Neena Bansal Krishna, while posting Gambhir’s plea for quashing of the FIR and recalling the April 9 order (which vacated the stay) for hearing on August 29, refused interim relief. The judge remarked that the court could not be swayed by “name dropping” or credentials unrelated to the case.
“Had you made a simple request, I would have considered it. You are trying to tell me so many things. Firstly the name (of the party), his credentials, the work done by him… You are trying name dropping as if it will work in the court. It does not work,” Justice Krishna observed.
Advocate Jai Anant Dehadrai, appearing for Gambhir, highlighted his client’s past contributions, including distribution of oxygen cylinders and medicines during the COVID-19 crisis, when the healthcare system was under severe strain. He argued that the April 9 order vacating the stay was passed without hearing Gambhir’s side, and that only the prosecution was stayed earlier, while the police investigation was free to continue.
He also urged that the plea be heard before September 8 — the next date before the trial court — to avoid Gambhir’s family members being summoned.
On September 20, 2021, the High Court had initially stayed trial court proceedings and sought a response from the Delhi Drug Control Authority after Gambhir, his foundation, and family members challenged the criminal complaint and summoning order.
The Drug Control Department filed a complaint against Gambhir; his mother, Seema Gambhir; wife, Natasha Gambhir; and foundation CEO, Aprajita Singh, for alleged offences under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act.
- Section 18(c) prohibits manufacture, sale, or distribution of drugs without a licence.
- Section 27(b)(ii) prescribes imprisonment of three to five years and a fine for illegal sale or distribution.
The case concerns allegations that Gambhir’s foundation had procured and distributed COVID-19 drugs without due authorization at the height of the pandemic.
