Availability of fewer medicines irks Arvind Kejriwal

New Delhi: Chief minister Arvind Kejriwal directed chief secretary M.M. Kutty to ensure that Delhi government-run hospitals have all necessary medicines after a report said that there was only 50 per cent availability of drugs.

Mr Kejriwal said he would conduct surprise checks to see that there are adequate medicines, consumables and functioning equipments after he received complaints about X-Ray and CT scan machines not working properly in some hospitals.

The health department is under Cabinet minister Satyendar Jain. “Directed Chief Secretary today (Tuesday) to ensure 100 per cent availability of medicines in all Delhi government hospitals. CS to certify every month,” Mr Kejriwal tweeted.

“Chief secretary is also to ensure and certify every month that all equipment in Delhi government hospitals in working condition,” he said.

Mr Kejriwal also received complaints about X-Ray and CT Scan machines not functioning properly in some hospitals. The CM said Mr Kutty will certify every month that all equipments in Delhi government hospitals are functioning properly.

Mr Kejriwal also expressed strong displeasure at not being provided regular reports about the status of availability of medicines and consumables, despite clear directions having been given to Mr Kutty on April 6 that a written report be submitted to him on the 1st and 15th of every month, according to an official release.