Covid-19 response: Rs 144.88Cr financial irregularity in management sparks political debate in Odisha

The previous government in Odisha, led by Biju Janata Dal (BJD), has allegedly committed financial irregularities in the management of Covid-19 response, a report of the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) of India revealed. The report published on Saturday has sparked political debate in Odisha.

The CAG report highlights the irregularities totalling Rs 144.88 Crore in payments to district Covid hospitals that allegedly occurred without adequate scrutiny of bills.

Also Read: BJP alleges Rs 40,000-cr scam during Covid period, seeks answers from BJD

The report points to specific lapses in financial oversight in the districts of Khurda and Cuttack, where multiple private hospitals, such as Sum Hospital, Hi-Tech, Blue Wheel, KIDS Hospital, Sanjeevani, Aditya Ashwini, and Sparsh Hospital, all in Bhubaneswar, including Sun Hospital in Cuttack, were allegedly involved. These institutions reportedly received large sums without the necessary verification of bills.

This revelation has sparked a political debate, with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) demanding answers from BJD. The BJP has called for accountability and transparency, questioning the motives behind these unchecked financial transactions.

Giving his views, BJP spokesperson Samir Ranjan Dash said, “The main thrust of this government is zero tolerance against corruption. Hence, the Government will take this matter seriously and action will be taken against persons found to be guilty.”

In response, the BJD has refuted the claims of financial misconduct, defending its Covid-19 management efforts as effective and above board.

Must Read: Odisha govt incurs revenue loss amounting crores due to irregularities: CAG report

“Effective management of Covid-19 pandemic in Odisha by Naveen Patnaik-led government was appreciated all over the world. However, the recent CAG report is not based on facts,” Rajnagar BJD MLA Dhruba Sahoo stated when contacted.

Statements from the hospitals named in the report are yet to be received, leaving unanswered questions about their involvement.

“As per the CAG report, gross financial irregularities were committed in the State pertaining to Covid-19 response management. I think action should be taken on wrongdoers,” political analyst Rabi Das expressed.

Reported By: Rajkumar Singhdeo, Jagdish Das