Kochi: The Kerala Lok Ayukta has begun its inquiry against former Health Minister KK Shailaja, following allegations she was complicit in the corruption involved in the purchase of PPE kits at exorbitant rates through Kerala Medical Services Corporation Limited (KMSCL), during the COVID pandemic. The move came after a complaint lodged by Congress leader Veena S Nair.
KK Shailaja, former Health Secretary Dr Rajan N Khobragade, former MD of Medical Services Corporation Balamurali, former general manager of Medical Services Corporation SR Dilipkumar, and seven others had been mentioned in the complaint. All the eleven names mentioned in the complaint were either decision makers or directly responsible for the procurement of PPE kits and surgical equipment during the COVID pandemic.
The Medical Services Corporation is the entity responsible for the distribution of drugs and surgical instruments at affordable rates across Kerala. Earlier, KK Shailaja and Health Department came under immense scrutiny after reports claimed irregularities in the purchase of PPE kits during the Covid-19 pandemic at an exorbitant price. It is learnt that the price was increased three-fold within a day. On the purchase dated 29th March 2020, a single PPE kit was priced at Rs 446, while on the purchase dated 30th March 2020, it became Rs 1,550.
Veena alleges corruption in the procurement of PPE kits by pointing out that they were purchased from private companies at a higher rate than the market value. This, she says, likely led to a loss for the state government coffers. She pointed out money was transferred to these private companies even before any deliveries were made.
Preliminary investigations have been completed in connection with the case and notices have already been sent to the officers involved, all except KK Shailaja. On Friday, a notice was sent to Shailaja, ordering her to appear before the inquiry panel on December 8, either in person or through a lawyer. Despite the unprecedented nature of the Covid pandemic, Shailaja was widely lauded for her efforts to curb the COVID menace. She was termed the moniker ‘Coronaslayer’ for the efficient way with which she laid down rules and guidelines, which were emulated across the country.
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