The issue of alleged blood theft, financial malpractice, and negligence at the Sir J.J. Metropolitan Government Blood Bank in Mumbai was raised in the Legislative Council. BJP MLC Chitra Wagh highlighted that 55 out of 128 blood bags collected during a donation camp were sent to another blood bank without permission. This unauthorized transfer was deemed as a direct theft of government blood.
Chitra Wagh further alleged that a private storage center was given unauthorized concessions, leading to private entities profiting significantly from the blood supply. She demanded strict action against the officials involved in what she described as a plunder of state funds. Additionally, she claimed to have evidence linking Dr. Hitesh Pagare, the Blood Bank Chief, to the private blood bank where government resources were allegedly being utilized.
Minister of State for Public Health Meghna Bordikar responded by announcing the termination of Dr. Pagare and another official found guilty in the inquiry. Criminal cases will be initiated against them. To address the irregularities, a new Assistant Director position will be created at the blood bank, and a transparent tracking system using QR codes will be implemented for every blood bag.
