Why is the BJP Protesting in Jharkhand Over HIV-Infected Blood Transfusions?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
Ranchi, Nov 3 (NationPress) The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) initiated a series of protests throughout Jharkhand on Monday, advocating for stringent action against individuals implicated in the alleged transfusion of HIV-infected blood to children with thalassemia in Chaibasa and Ranchi.
The party is also calling for the immediate ousting of State Health Minister Irfan Ansari.
Under the leadership of MPs, MLAs, and senior officials, BJP members organized demonstrations outside the Civil Surgeon offices in every district of the state. They submitted memorandums directed to the Governor to the respective Deputy Commissioners.
In Ranchi, a substantial crowd of BJP supporters gathered outside the Civil Surgeon’s office, chanting slogans and demanding the resignation of the Health Minister.
Former Assembly Speaker and BJP MLA C.P. Singh condemned the incident as “an inhumane crime,” asserting that innocent children’s lives were jeopardized “for a mere sum of two lakh rupees.”
“This government has failed in every aspect — from health to education. Those responsible for this act must face severe penalties,” he stated.
BJP spokesperson Pratul Shah Deo accused the state administration of being “deeply entrenched in corruption” and claimed that the Health Department was “endangering lives.”
He held Health Minister Irfan Ansari “directly responsible” and criticized him for deflecting inquiries by labeling it a BJP conspiracy or a case of religious bias.
Party leaders emphasized that Jharkhand’s healthcare system has deteriorated under the current administration. They highlighted that the Centre had identified significant issues in the Chaibasa blood bank as early as 2021, yet no corrective actions were implemented.
“Hospitals in the state are becoming mortuaries rather than centers for treatment,” the leaders lamented.
The memorandum submitted by the party called for an investigation by a sitting judge of the Jharkhand High Court or the CBI, stern action against guilty officials, and a recommendation for the removal of the Health Minister.
The BJP cautioned that if the government led by Hemant Soren does not respond swiftly, the party will escalate its protests across the state.