The Karnataka administration has established a panel to delve into the discrepancies in the procurement activities of the Karnataka State Medical Supplies Corporation Limited (KSMSCL). This is specifically in response to the low-quality deliveries of Ringer’s lactate IV fluid that resulted in the deaths of five women last month. The incident is associated with Paschim Banga Pharmaceutical, a company from West Bengal.
This committee, headed by the additional chief secretary and development commissioner, is assigned with the urgent task of examining the situation and ensuring punitive measures are taken against the implicated company and other parties responsible for the procurement oversights.
Moreover, the committee is directed to propose foundational reforms in the current operations of the KSMSCL, as stipulated in a governmental directive.
To further support the investigation, a verification unit led by an IAS officer will compile an extensive report on the breach of regulations by KSMSCL and hold them answerable for the alleged violations.
In the past month, five maternal fatalities have been documented at the Ballari Medical College Hospital and Research Centre, formerly known as the Vijayanagar Institute of Medical Sciences (VIMS). The patients who died were administered batches of the deteriorated IV fluid which are now under scrutiny.
In response to this grave issue of inferior Ringer’s lactate IV fluid, Karnataka’s Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has initiated a probe. The state swiftly acted, committing Rs. 5 lakh as compensatory aid to the families affected by the tragic losses attributed to the defective supplies.
This initiative underscores the state administration’s dedication to correcting procurement lapses within KSMSCL and holding accountable those at fault, including the West Bengal-based pharmaceutical company, Paschim Banga Pharmaceutical.
A verification team has been appointed to carry out an exhaustive exploration into the procurement mistakes, with a particular emphasis on breaches in sample testing at authorized laboratories. The inquiry will also assess the involvement of KSMSCL officials to identify accountability for these oversights, in alignment with the directive.
The committee is tasked with delivering its findings by December 10, concerning the corrupt quality of the Ringer’s lactate IV fluid. The state’s swift reaction underscores the health and family welfare department’s commitment to addressing this critical issue diligently and ensuring accountability at all levels.