Political Clash Over Drug Crisis in Kerala's Pharma Market

Congress MP Jebi Mather has criticized Kerala's drugs control department over its handling of spurious medicines. Alleging inefficiency and negligence, she blames the state government for a surge in counterfeit pharmaceuticals. She also raised concerns about healthcare infrastructure, while CPI(M) MP John Brittas defended the state government's actions.

In a fiery session at Rajya Sabha, Congress MP Jebi Mather condemned Kerala's drugs control department, accusing it of allowing spurious medicines to flood the market. The MP highlighted recent raids that exposed widespread counterfeit drugs, placing the blame on state mismanagement.

Mather broadened her critique to include glaring deficiencies in Kerala's healthcare system, pointing out a lack of surgical supplies and maintenance. She emphasized how these failures pose serious risks to patients and public health.

Countering her claims, CPI(M) MP John Brittas defended the state government, attributing the discovery of counterfeit medicines to efficient governance rather than negligence. The debate underscores a potent political divide over governing responsibility and accountability in health administration.

(With inputs from agencies.)