Delhi Government Suspends Seven Officials Over Medicine Procurement Irregularities
The Delhi government has suspended seven officials, including five pharmacists, following an investigation into alleged irregularities in the procurement, storage, and management of medicines at various stores of the Central Procurement Agency (CPA). The suspension order was issued on Saturday, November 25, 2023.
The action stems from a report published by The Indian Express on November 24, which highlighted that a consignment of over 1.27 lakh vials of anti-rabies vaccine meant for Delhi's public healthcare facilities remained undelivered. The report cited a letter from the Serum Institute of India to the CPA, stating that the designated government warehouse in West Delhi's Janakpuri lacks adequate cold storage capacity.
The anti-rabies vaccine is critical for Delhi, which has seen a surge in stray dog attacks and rabies risks. The Supreme Court last year expressed concern over such incidents. The undelivered vaccines represent a significant gap in public health preparedness.
The investigation found irregularities in procurement and storage practices at CPA stores. Officials suspended include five pharmacists and two other employees. Further action may be taken pending a detailed inquiry.
The Delhi government has not yet commented on how it plans to address the cold storage shortage or ensure timely delivery of vaccines to hospitals.
