The case, originally lodged by the Delhi Drug Control Department under Section 18(c) and Section 27(b)(2) of the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, named Gambhir, his wife Natasha Gambhir, mother Seema Gambhir, and his NGO among the accused. The sections pertain to the production, sale, and distribution of medicines without a valid license, carrying provisions for imprisonment.
Three years ago, on September 20, 2021, the Delhi High Court had issued an interim stay on proceedings after Gambhir filed a petition challenging the trial court summons. The petition sought the quashing of the criminal complaint, arguing that the medicines were distributed for humanitarian purposes during the pandemic, and no harm resulted from the act.
At the time, reports had suggested that Gambhir’s office was allegedly distributing COVID medicines to the needy, which some critics labelled as illegal hoarding. Gambhir consistently maintained that his actions were humanitarian and aimed at helping those in urgent need.
Currently, Gambhir is with the Indian cricket team in Guwahati, ahead of the second Test against South Africa, scheduled to begin tomorrow, November 22. His tenure as head coach of the Indian team is set to commence on July 1, 2024, and continue until December 31, 2027, succeeding Rahul Dravid in the role.
The court’s decision formally clears Gambhir and his associates of any criminal liability, ending a prolonged legal dispute that had drawn national attention. Gambhir’s NGO and family members, who are trustees, were also absolved of wrongdoing. The ruling reinforces the legality of charitable medical aid provided during emergencies, provided no public harm occurs.
This verdict allows Gambhir to focus entirely on his coaching responsibilities without legal distractions, as the team prepares for an important Test series.
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