Is CM Mamata Banerjee Compromising Bengal's Healthcare System?
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Synopsis
Accusations fly as BJP's Amit Malviya criticizes CM Mamata Banerjee for alleged corruption in Bengal's healthcare system. Highlighting a troubling incident, he questions the efficacy of the Swasthya Sathi scheme while calling for accountability in the state's health services.
Key Takeaways
- Amit Malviya raises serious allegations against Mamata Banerjee.
- The Swasthya Sathi scheme is under scrutiny for corruption.
- Instances of unnecessary referrals and misdiagnosis have been reported.
- Patient safety is at stake due to systemic issues.
- Calls for accountability in West Bengal's healthcare system are growing.
Kolkata, July 2 (NationPress) The Chief of BJP’s Information Technology Cell and the party’s central observer for West Bengal, Amit Malviya, on Wednesday, accused Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee of jeopardizing the state's healthcare framework.
As per Malviya, the ordinary citizens of West Bengal are enduring hardships due to rampant corruption in the Swasthya Sathi scheme, which serves as the state's health insurance initiative, alongside the prevalent referral rackets linking state-operated hospitals with private clinics.
In his statement, shared on his official X account, Malviya highlighted an incident involving a patient in Panihati, located in the North 24 Parganas district. The patient allegedly faced challenges when the on-duty doctor at a state hospital directed him to consult his private chamber instead of providing assistance.
Malviya further criticized the doctor for conducting an unnecessary operation on this patient to extract funds from the Swasthya Sathi scheme.
“A man visited Panihati State General Hospital for a standard hernia operation. However, government doctor Biswajit Das instructed him to go to his private practice. To fraudulently claim money from the Swasthya Sathi scheme, he misdiagnosed the patient with appendicitis and performed an unnecessary appendix surgery instead!” Malviya stated.
According to him, this incident is not an anomaly but reflects a troubling reality within West Bengal's healthcare system.
“On one hand, countless patients receive unnecessary referrals, which could lead to tragic outcomes. On the other hand, the Swasthya Sathi card is frequently ineffective and doesn't cover the majority of real ailments, allowing dishonest practitioners to exploit the system and jeopardize innocent lives. How many more lives will suffer before this system is held accountable?” Malviya questioned.
The Swasthya Sathi scheme has faced ongoing criticism. The Chief Minister and her administration are frequently accused of intentionally rejecting the central health insurance scheme, Ayushman Bharat, solely to promote the Swasthya Sathi initiative.
Last month, controversies arose after Saraju Nursing Home in Sinthi, North Kolkata, owned by Trinamool Congress legislator Dr. Sudipto Roy, refused free treatment for a patient who held a Swasthya Sathi card.
Point of View
It is crucial to approach the allegations made by Amit Malviya with an unbiased lens. While the claims raise important questions about the integrity of the healthcare system in West Bengal, it’s essential to analyze the broader context of healthcare delivery and accessibility in the region. The conversation must remain focused on ensuring accountability and improving health services for the citizens.
NationPress
10/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the allegations against Mamata Banerjee?
Amit Malviya accuses her of corrupt practices within West Bengal's healthcare system, particularly concerning the Swasthya Sathi scheme.
What is the Swasthya Sathi scheme?
It is West Bengal's health insurance scheme intended to cover medical costs for residents.
What incident did Malviya highlight?
He cited a case where a patient was misdiagnosed to exploit the Swasthya Sathi scheme.
Why is the Swasthya Sathi scheme controversial?
It has been criticized for not covering essential medical conditions and enabling corrupt practices.
What does Malviya suggest regarding the healthcare system?
He calls for accountability in the healthcare system to prevent further exploitation and harm to patients.
