India's Hidden COVID-19 Toll: Disparities Exposed

A study revealed that India experienced 11.9 lakh excess deaths in 2020, 17% higher than 2019, largely due to COVID-19. This figure is significantly higher than official counts. Life expectancy dropped notably, with marginalized groups disproportionately affected. The Indian government, however, disputes the study's findings, citing methodological flaws.

An international study has revealed that India experienced 11.9 lakh excess deaths in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic, marking a 17% increase compared to 2019. This estimate is substantially higher than official figures and the World Health Organization's estimates, according to the researchers, including those from the University of Oxford, UK.

The study, which utilized data from over 7.65 lakh individuals, revealed a marked decline in life expectancy, particularly among marginalized groups. Women saw a 3.1-year drop, while men experienced a 2.1-year decline. Caste-based and religious groups also faced significant declines, with high caste Hindus losing 1.3 years, Muslims 5.4 years, and Scheduled Tribes 4.1 years.

The Indian government's Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has countered the study's findings, calling them 'gross and misleading' and pointing to methodological flaws. They emphasize that the National Family Health Survey sample used is not representative of the entire country and highlight the 'robust' Civil Registration System that recorded a 99% death registration rate in 2020.