The state’s health sector has been thrust into controversy following serious allegations of unauthorised blood donation camps and the illegal trafficking of blood components to other states. In response, Swasthya Bhavan has imposed sweeping restrictions on 11 blood banks across West Bengal.
According to an official notification issued by the health department, the identified blood banks have been barred from organising any blood donation camps outside their premises until further notice. However, they will be permitted to continue collecting and processing blood within their facilities, subject to strict adherence to medical protocols and the use of trained personnel.
Health department sources revealed that the action follows widespread allegations of irregularities in the operation of blood donation camps and questionable blood collection practices. Acting on these complaints, senior officials from the State Blood Transfusion Council carried out surprise inspections across Kolkata and multiple districts. During the raids, officials seized several documents deemed suspicious.
Preliminary findings from the investigation have raised alarming concerns, indicating that blood components such as red blood cells and plasma were allegedly being siphoned off and trafficked outside the state in exchange for large sums of money. Authorities described the revelations as “serious” and warranting immediate intervention.
The blood banks placed under restriction include Om Blood Centre in Beleghata, Upasam Om Blood Centre in Raiganj, Teresa Om Blood Centre in Purba Bardhaman, HMC Rotary Blood Centre in Howrah, Ashok Laboratory Blood Centre in Jodhpur Park, Life Care Blood Centre in Entally, Kothari Medical Centre Blood Centre in Alipore, Health Point Hospital Blood Centre on Prannath Pandit Street, Raniganj Institute of Medical Sciences in Paschim Bardhaman, Ispat Cooperative Hospital Blood Centre in Sonarpur Kalikapur, and Krishnanagar Institute of Medical Science Blood Centre in Krishnanagar.
Officials emphasised that the ban on outdoor camps is aimed at curbing unauthorised collection drives, which are suspected to be at the heart of the alleged malpractice. At the same time, internal operations of these centres will remain under strict scrutiny to ensure compliance with legal and medical standards.
The notification also directs all concerned facilities to report any significant blood transactions to the State Blood Transfusion Council without delay. Authorities have warned that any violation of the new guidelines will invite stringent action.
The developments have triggered political reactions as well, with opposition parties raising concerns over regulatory lapses and demanding accountability. Meanwhile, the health department has maintained that further investigations are underway and that additional action may follow depending on the findings.
Officials indicated that the crackdown is part of a broader effort to restore transparency and integrity in the state’s blood transfusion system.
Also read: Birbhum cash-gold haul: CM Adhikari targets Mamata
Follow us
