Did Delhi CM Rekha Gupta Just Expose AAP's Covid Death Data Manipulation?

New Delhi, July 1 (NationPress) Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta on Tuesday accused the previous Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) administration of manipulating data and significantly under-reporting Covid-19 fatalities, asserting that only 97 individuals were recorded as having died in the capital due to the virus.

During her address on National Doctors’ Day, she remarked, “It is evident that thousands suffered during the pandemic, yet the Delhi government reported a mere 97 deaths, despite long queues seen outside numerous crematoriums.”

She highlighted that the discrepancies in the reported Covid death toll emerged when the BJP administration began reviewing documents related to compensation for families who lost loved ones to the virus.

Gupta emphasized the Delhi government’s commitment to creating a comprehensive healthcare system where all residents can access modern, high-quality, and affordable medical care.

“Our government is operating in mission mode to guarantee that no resident of Delhi is left without treatment,” she stated.

Previously, she criticized the AAP government's self-declared world-class health model.

“When we examine the bed availability in Delhi, the ratio stands at 0.42—indicating that there isn’t even one bed available per person in the government system. When considering all sectors—central government, Delhi government, and private facilities—the total only reaches 0.5, or half a bed for every 1,000 individuals,” she noted, adding that the WHO recommends a minimum of two beds per 1,000 people.

She also stressed the importance of supporting healthcare providers, stating, “The central theme for this year’s Doctors’ Day, as designated by the Centre, is 'Behind the Mask, Who Will Heal the Healer?' This is a crucial consideration.”

“Without creating a suitable working environment and providing the necessary resources and staff support, how can we expect our doctors to operate efficiently?” she questioned, pointing to the overwhelming pressure from numerous OPD patients on government hospitals.

The Chief Minister also extended her gratitude to doctors, saying, “I want to express my heartfelt congratulations, respect, best wishes, and gratitude. In terms of your invaluable services, while we can’t provide much in return, we can certainly offer a sincere thank you.”

She acknowledged the dedication of government sector doctors, stating, “Doctors in our public hospitals are exceptionally qualified, empathetic, and committed, continuing their work even under challenging circumstances.”

Gupta took to social media platform X to honor doctors, writing, “On #NationalDoctorsDay, we recognized those who have delivered exceptional service in the medical field at the Delhi Secretariat.”

“The expertise and engagement of our dedicated doctors are essential in strengthening healthcare services in the capital, making them more robust and centered around the community,” she added.

Tuesday’s event served not only as a tribute but also as evidence of the steps being taken towards a healthier future for Delhi.