SC directs 12-member National Task Force to ensure oxygen distribution to States, UTs

The Supreme Court has directed the 12-member National Task Force (NTF) set up on Saturday to streamline oxygen allocation in the country to form sub-groups for each state/Union Territory to conduct an audit for determining whether the oxygen supplies allocated by the Centre are reaching the concerned state, UTs.

A bench comprising Justices DY Chandrachud and MR Shah said, "The purpose of conducting audits is to ensure a measure of accountability for the proper distribution of oxygen supplies made available by the Union Government to the States/UTs."

Elaborating on the terms of



reference of the National Task Force, the top court said it will assess and make recommendations for the entire country based on the need for, availability and distribution of medical oxygen.

"Formulate and devise the methodology for the allocation of medical oxygen to the States and UTs on a scientific, rational and equitable basis. Make recommendations on augmenting the available supplies of oxygen based on present and projected demands likely during the pandemic; make recommendations for the periodical review and revision of allocations based on the stage and impact of the pandemic", said the top court in its order.