Delhi Health Minister Demands Suspension of Health Secretary Over Substandard Drugs

Delhi Health Minister Saurabh Bharadwaj has recommended the immediate suspension of the health secretary and strict action against the former DGHS over the supply of substandard drugs to Delhi government hospitals.

New Delhi, Dec 29: Delhi Health Minister Saurabh Bharadwaj has recommended the immediate suspension of the health secretary to the Lieutenant Governor and the Centre over the supply of sub-standard drugs to Delhi government hospitals. He also demanded strict action against the former director general of the Directorate General Of Health Services (DGHS).

Inaction by Health Secretary

Addressing a press conference, Bharadwaj expressed his dissatisfaction with the lack of action taken by Lieutenant Governor V K Saxena against the officials concerned. He stated that upon assuming office in March 2023, he had ordered an audit of medicines, equipment, and consumables. Despite repeated reminders to the health secretary, no action was taken.

Repeated Reminders Ignored

Bharadwaj highlighted that the health secretary disregarded his orders and failed to initiate any audit related to the procurement of medicines. In July, he sent a reminder questioning the non-implementation of orders and the absence of an audit of medicines and other items purchased for Delhi government hospitals. However, the health secretary continued to remain unresponsive.

Minister's Frustration

Bharadwaj expressed his frustration over the health secretary's unwillingness to conduct an audit. He emphasized his desire for transparency and the exposure of any irregularities in the procurement process, followed by appropriate action against the responsible officials. However, he alleged that the health secretary appeared reluctant to uncover any irregularities.

Call for Strict Action

Bharadwaj urged the LG and the BJP-led Centre to take strict action against the guilty officials. He questioned the impartiality of any investigation conducted under the current circumstances, given the involvement of the health secretary in the matter. He also criticized the LG for not suspending the officials despite his recommendations.

Previous Communication

Bharadwaj pointed out that he had previously written to the LG through Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal in October, expressing concerns about the health secretary and the then director general of the DGHS. He accused these officers of deliberately obstructing essential policies of the Delhi government, including the Farishtey Scheme and other Health Department initiatives, and withholding funds for various schemes.

Central Government's Role

Bharadwaj expressed surprise at the LG's inaction and questioned whether his letter was necessary for the suspension of the officers. He emphasized that these officers are central government employees and immediate action could be taken. He reiterated his recommendation to the BJP-led central government for appropriate action.

Sub-Standard Drugs

The development comes after the LG recommended a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) inquiry into the alleged supply of sub-standard drugs to hospitals run by the city government. The drugs found to be of sub-standard quality included critical life-saving antibiotics, steroids, anti-epilepsy and anti-anxiety psychiatric drugs, and anti-hypertension drugs.

The recommendation by Delhi Health Minister Saurabh Bharadwaj highlights the seriousness of the sub-standard drugs issue and the urgent need for action against responsible officials. The case underscores the importance of ensuring the quality and safety of medicines supplied to healthcare facilities to protect public health.