CBI (symbolic photo).
– Photo: ANI
Expansion
The Union Home Ministry has ordered a CBI inquiry into the alleged supply of substandard medicines to government hospitals in Delhi. It will also be investigated whether these medicines were distributed through mohalla clinics also. In December last year, a CBI inquiry was ordered on the matter following the recommendation of Delhi Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena.
Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena said the medicines reportedly failed quality standard tests. There was potential for life-threatening injuries in Delhi hospitals. Delhi Health Minister Saurabh Bhardwaj welcomed the investigation and demanded immediate suspension of the Health Department Secretary.
Saurabh Bhardwaj said, ‘I took over the post in March last year. Immediately after this, directions were given to audit the medicines. But the Health Secretary of Delhi Government did not follow these guidelines. I welcome the CBI investigation in this matter, but why are the central officials being saved. He should be suspended immediately.
The Vigilance Directorate of Delhi Government had written a letter to the Home Ministry demanding an investigation. It was written in the letter that it should also be investigated whether the same medicines which have been purchased by the Central Procurement Agency (CPA) are being distributed to the patients through ‘Mohalla Clinics’ or not. The letter said any action for supply of medicines ‘not of standard quality’ should not be limited to CPAs and the entire supply chain needs to be investigated.
