Kolkata, Sep 22 (PTI) The West Bengal health department has directed chief medical officers to lodge police complaints over the alleged theft of medical equipment from 64 government facilities in 12 districts, officials said on Tuesday.
According to it, such thefts have been reported at 50 sub-health centres, 13 block primary health centres and one primary health centre.
“Howrah accounts for the highest number of such incidents, with 25 health centres reporting missing medical equipment. Of these, 18 are in Sankrail and seven in Shyampur-II block,” the official said.
The equipment was purchased in the 2021-22 financial year with funds allocated under the 15th Finance Commission through the National Health Mission to strengthen rural health infrastructure, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The National Health Mission (NHM) wrote to the district magistrates and chief medical officers in 2024, asking them to ensure proper upkeep and utilisation of the equipment that cost crores.
A senior official of the state health department said the equipment had been procured and distributed to bolster rural healthcare. “It is unfortunate that such equipment has been stolen. Those responsible for the safekeeping of the equipment will have to take responsibility,” the official said.
“The department has made it clear that it will not hesitate to take legal action if negligence is established. If necessary, the cost may also be recovered from the salaries of those found responsible,” the official added.
(PTI News)
