In the ongoing tussle between the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government and Delhi Lieutenant Governor (LG) VK Saxena over the state of health infrastructure in the national capital, the rift deepens as Saxena urges Health Minister Saurabh Bhardwaj to present a comprehensive 'white paper' on the condition of healthcare facilities.
In a scathing letter addressed to Bhardwaj, LG Saxena expressed dismay over the dismal state of affairs in Delhi government hospitals. He highlighted the apparent failure of the much-hyped 'Delhi Model' of health service delivery, asserting that it seems to be hanging by a thread.
Saxena pointed out the shortage of basic medical supplies such as cotton and the absence of orthopaedic doctors in certain healthcare facilities, painting a grim picture of the healthcare infrastructure under the AAP regime.
The LG underscored the need for immediate action to address the shortcomings in the health sector and called upon Bhardwaj to demonstrate leadership by preparing a roadmap for corrective measures.
He suggested that a 'white paper' detailing the challenges and proposed solutions could serve as a vital starting point in the endeavour to revitalise the healthcare system. Saxena emphasised the importance of seeking input from specialists and experts to guide the formulation of effective strategies.
In response to Saxena's letter, Minister Saurabh Bharadwaj reiterated concerns about the alleged misinformation provided by health officials regarding the availability of essential medicines and supplies in government hospitals.
Bharadwaj accused the Health Secretary and Chief Secretary of misleading the government by downplaying the severity of the situation. He cited instances of hospitals facing shortages, even basic items like cotton, raising questions about the credibility of the information provided by officials.
Expressing frustration over the lack of concrete action taken by the Chief Secretary despite repeated appeals, Bharadwaj called upon the LG to intervene and address the pressing issues plaguing the healthcare system. He urged Saxena to scrutinise the matter and take decisive steps to rectify the situation for the welfare of Delhi residents.
As the standoff between the AAP government and the LG intensifies, the fate of Delhi's healthcare system hangs in the balance, awaiting swift and effective interventions to alleviate the challenges faced by healthcare providers and patients alike.
Follow us
