The investigative panel headed by retired high court judge John Michael Cunha has turned in its preliminary findings on purported anomalies in Covid-19 administration during the previous BJP administration in Bengaluru. On Saturday, the 1,722-page report was presented to Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah.
The interim report looks at the Rs 6,651 crore in purchases and expenses linked to managing COVID-19. This covers purchases made by a number of organizations, including the Kidwai Memorial Institute of Oncology, National Health Mission, Directorate of Medical Education, Karnataka State Medical Supplies Corporation, Family and Health Services, and the four zonal offices of the BBMP. These substantial costs are included in the commission’s examination to look into any inconsistencies or poor pandemic management.
The commission still needs to submit reports for four BBMP zones and thirty-one districts in spite of this thorough evaluation. The commission has been given an extra six months to finish its probe into these remaining areas.
Chief Minister Siddaramaiah announced that the conclusions of the interim report would be brought before the legislature in the next winter session. Additionally, he gave his word that anyone found to be in violation of the law will face consequences. This action is a part of Siddaramaiah’s attempt to respond to the criticism and allegations leveled by the opposition BJP, especially in relation to purported frauds involving the Mysore Urban Development Authority and Valmiki ST Corporation.
The opposition Congress had earlier engaged in a fierce campaign against the BJP, focusing on alleged corruption and mishandling of Covid-19 management difficulties. Examining the purchase of vital goods such medications, Rapid Antigen Test (RAT) kits, Covid-19 management tools, ventilators, and oxygen cylinders was one of the inquiry commission’s main objectives. The investigation of mortality linked to oxygen shortages during the epidemic was another duty assigned to the panel.
This investigation is important for its ability to highlight differences in pandemic management practices as well as its political ramifications. The results may have an impact on political dynamics and public opinion, particularly as the state handles current political conflicts and gets ready for upcoming elections. The thoroughness of the inquiry emphasizes how crucial accountability and openness are to handling public health emergencies and correcting any associated wrongdoing.
SOURCE :
TIMES OF INDIA
