A major commission of inquiry has submitted its final report on the handling of the Covid-19 pandemic in Karnataka, raising serious concerns about deaths during the period and alleging significant financial and managerial lapses. The Justice John Michael D'Cunha Commission flagged irregularities in the procurement of medicines and medical equipment, alongside mismanagement in the critical oxygen supply chain.
Report Submitted to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah
The commission, constituted in 2023, formally submitted its findings to the state government on Wednesday. Chief Secretary Shalini Rajneesh received the voluminous report in the presence of Chief Minister Siddaramaiah. This probe was initiated following serious observations made by the public accounts committee in its July-August 2023 report, focusing on the pandemic period when the BJP was in power in the state.
Scope of the Enquiry and Financial Findings
The commission's investigation delved deep into procurement processes across key districts. According to a letter from Justice D'Cunha to the chief secretary, the enquiry scrutinized expenditures worth over Rs 63 crore in Bengaluru Urban district, covering 171 files. In Belagavi district, expenditures of Rs 42 crore spread across 684 files were examined. The primary objective was to ascertain the regularity and propriety of medical procurement by these districts and other associated institutions during the health crisis.
Justice D'Cunha clarified that the commission itself has not released the detailed reports to the public. However, emphasizing public interest and the pressing need for reforms and transparency in public procurement, he strongly recommended that the government consider making the findings public at the earliest opportunity. In conversations with the media, D'Cunha stated that while he cannot disclose specific findings or recommendations, the complete report was submitted to the state government in 24 distinct parts, indicating the breadth and depth of the investigation.
Implications and Call for Transparency
The submission of this report places significant responsibility on the current state administration. The allegations concerning deaths linked to potential mismanagement, oxygen supply failures, and irregularities in procurement worth over Rs 105 crore collectively are grave. The commission's nudge for public disclosure sets the stage for potential political accountability and systemic overhauls. Stakeholders and the public now await the government's decision on whether to act on the recommendation for transparency and release the full report, which could have far-reaching consequences for public health policy and governance in Karnataka.
