Delhi LG VK Saxena takes swipe at Kejriwal over children's hospital fire, orders anti-corruption probe
New Delhi/IBNS: Delhi Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena has taken a swipe at Arvind Kejriwal and expressed his "disappointment" with the Chief Minister over the massive fire that broke out in a Delhi children's hospital last week in which seven infants were killed.
Saxena said he had been compelled "in public interest" to order an anti-corruption probe into possible lapses in the registration and regulatory management of private nursing homes in the city.
"... ACB has been directed to undertake a comprehensive inquiry into the registration of nursing homes in the city, to assess how many nursing homes are functioning without valid registrations and if those that have a valid registration comply with prescribed norms..." Saxena said.
Alleging "absence of ministerial oversight... criminal neglect, and connivance of government officials in granting or renewing licences for nursing homes", he proclaimed he had been "forced to step in... on account of lack of seriousness on (the) part of authorities entrusted with these responsibilities".
The AAP has not yet responded to Saxena's statements.
Earlier in the day, Health Minister Saurabh Bhardwaj ordered a mandatory audit of safety equipment in every city hospital.
Bhardwaj has also vowed "strictest punishment" against those guilty.
The Delhi government has instituted a magistrate-level inquiry into the fire.
Serious lapses have come to the fore in the aftermath of the blaze, including the hospital not having an emergency exit system in case of a fire and that it did not have a valid no-objection certificate.
There were also 10 more beds than the hospital was allowed, meaning there was an unfortunate rush when the fire broke out, and panicked staff, patients, and caregivers tried to escape.
Have asked Chief Secy to institute an inquiry into the tragic incidents of fire in children's hospital in Delhi. Also instructed CP to ensure all that is needful.
— LG Delhi (@LtGovDelhi) May 26, 2024
My heartfelt condolences to bereaved families.
I assure all relief & will ensure that guilty are brought to book.
The two, including hospital owner Dr Naveen Khichi, have been arrested.
In recent weeks Saxena has also came out in support of the Swati Maliwal, who has accused Kejriwal's aide of assault. The LG declared himself "deeply distressed" by the whole incident.
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