Karnataka procured 16 lakh expired RT-PCR kits

A commission led by retired High Court judge John Michael D’Cunha has revealed significant irregularities in Karnataka’s COVID-19 management and procurement during the BJP’s tenure. The report highlights that over 16 lakh RT-PCR test kits provided by two companies in 2022. Were either expired at the time of delivery or close to their expiry dates. Raising concerns about the quality and oversight of procurement processes.

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In addition, the Karnataka State Medical Supplies Corporation Ltd. (KSMSCL) faced scrutiny over a cancelled order for one lakh Rapid Antigen Test (RAT) kits from a Singapore-based company in March 2020. The order was terminated due to delays in delivery. However, the commission found that the corporation failed to recover ₹6.99 crore already paid to the company as part of the order.

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Procurement Lapses Expose Accountability Issues

The findings point to a lack of accountability and proper checks in handling critical medical supplies during the pandemic. The report calls attention to systemic lapses in procurement practices, which potentially compromised the state’s efforts to combat COVID-19 effectively.

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This investigation sheds light on mismanagement and wasteful expenditures during a period of heightened public health concerns. The commission’s findings underscore the importance of stricter regulations and monitoring mechanisms to ensure that future procurement processes are transparent and serve public interests effectively.

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