Supply of ‘non-standard’ drugs in Delhi government hospitals: Vigilance department writes to health secretary

Regarding the “Not of Standard Quality” medications being supplied to Delhi government hospitals, the Delhi Special Vigilance Department wrote to the health secretary on Sunday, requesting clarification on the amount paid to companies and manufacturers thus far.

“You are requested to ensure that all such drugs which have failed the prescribed norms should be immediately qualified and seized as per the due process of law on a war footing,” read the letter.
“Secondly, you are requested to ensure the followings; 1. That no further payment is made to such companies. 2. That all the failed drugs may be immediately identified and should be removed from the stock of all the hospitals where such drugs have been supplied so as to ensure that the general public are not administered with such ‘Not of Standard Quality Drugs’ 3. May also clarify since when these drugs are being procured and supplied,” it added.

The letter went on to say, “Please clarify the amount of money that has been paid to these manufacturers and companies thus far, as well as the amount that is still outstanding. In addition, you are asked to promptly obtain all records pertaining to the purchase of pharmaceuticals, including tender documents and files, and to give the directorate of vigilance an original copy of each document.”

“You are also requested to provide terms and conditions of the appointment of dealers/distributers for the execution of supply in respect of above-failed drugs. Action taken report may kindly be submitted in next 48 hour,” it added.
Earlier on Saturday, Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena recommended a CBI inquiry into “Not of Standard Quality” drugs being supplied in Delhi government hospitals.
“I am, to say the least, anguished at the fact that lakhs of hapless people and patients are being supplied fake drugs that have failed quality standard tests,” the L-G said in a letter to Chief Secretary Naresh Kumar directing him for the investigation.