Odisha Human Rights Commission (OHRC) has taken suo motto cognizance of media reports on black marketing of oxygen cylinders and life-saving medicines in the State.
“The Commission is shocked to know that oxygen cylinders and medicines are stated to be sold at a very higher price. Everybody knows that we are passing through an unprecedented situation and the people are lighting with life and death due to spread of COVID-19 pandemic,” it said.
Meanwhile, the Commission has also sought reports from the State chief secretary and the additional chief secretary of health department. It also urged the concerned departments to take appropriate steps to prevent any kind of such black marketing and take appropriate action against those involved in such activities.
Also Read
Appreciating the State government for fixing the rates for general ambulance and ambulance with life support system, OHRC said that there should he strict monitoring so that persons in distress and suffering due to COVID-I9 and other ailments are not harassed in the hands of any unscrupulous element.
Moreover, the Commission also urged the State chief secretary to ensure opening of Temporary Medical Centers (TMCs) in rural areas at the earliest as declared by the government keeping in view the situation that the people in the rural area are largely affected by the second wave of COVID-19.