KalimNews, January 12, 2025, Kolkata : Leader of the Opposition in the West Bengal Assembly, Subhendu Adhikari, has demanded the immediate arrest of Health Secretary Narayanswarup Nigam in connection with the ongoing poisonous saline controversy. Adhikari alleged that fake medicines and saline are being supplied in exchange for money, endangering the lives of poor patients. He also linked the scandal to what he termed “Kalighat’s yoga,” suggesting corrupt connections involving Mukul Ghosh, the Director of West Bengal Pharmaceuticals.
Adhikari made these statements while addressing the media at a blood donation camp in Howrah. He claimed that a blacklisted company was awarded the tender to supply saline, despite its expiration in 2022.
“A lot will unfold in this matter. We have demanded that the Enforcement Directorate (ED) investigate this incident thoroughly. I have informed Naddaji (referring to BJP National President J.P. Nadda), and central authorities will look into this. Narayanswarup Nigam must be taken into custody, and Mukul Ghosh, who is allegedly linked to Kalighat, should be investigated for supplying fake medicines in exchange for bribes,” Adhikari stated. He also requested the Union Health Minister to involve the Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI) in the probe.
The issue has sparked widespread panic, particularly after a pregnant woman died due to a saline failure at Medinipur Medical College Hospital. Three other patients remain critical, with two on ventilation as doctors work tirelessly to save their lives. Banned saline stocks have since been removed from the hospital. However, questions remain about how the prohibited product entered the district hospital from the medical college despite the ban. Additionally, a prohibition has been issued on the use of seven more drugs at the facility.
Political analysts consider Adhikari’s demand for the arrest of the health secretary significant, particularly as it implicates high-ranking officials. Allegations have also surfaced against the state Health Minister, further escalating the political tensions surrounding the scandal.
Adding to the outcry, senior CPM leader and lawyer Vikas Ranjan Bhattacharya supported the call for an investigation. “There should be a thorough inquiry; there is no room for debate on this. It is the moral responsibility of the government to identify and hold the criminals accountable,” he said.
The scandal has ignited fierce debates over accountability and governance in the state’s healthcare system, with demands for immediate corrective action to ensure patient safety and transparency.