Shakeel Akhter
Ranchi: The M/S Blood Bank accused of supplying HIV-infected blood to thalassemia-affected children in Chaibasahad been operating illegally since 2020, as its license had expired that year. Despite this, the state drug controller failed to issue any closure order and continued to allow its operations, issuing only repeated show-cause notices over the past five years.
Expired License and Violation of Drug Rules
According to official documents, the blood bank’s license number JH/BB/03/2003 was valid from May 17, 2003, to May 16, 2007. After relocating to a new hospital building on April 10, 2020, the facility was required under Rule 28-C of the Drug and Cosmetic Act to apply for a new license within three months. Failure to do so would automatically render the license void. However, M/S Blood Bank never obtained a fresh license for the new premises, meaning it has been operating unlawfully for the past five years.
The Drug Controller’s office repeatedly issued show-cause notices reminding the management that their license had lapsed and directing them to apply for renewal through the central online portal (www.statedrugs.gov.in). Despite this, no new application was filed, and no effective action was taken by authorities.
Negligence by Drug Controller and Health Ministry
Even after multiple warnings, the state drug controller did not seal or suspend the blood bank’s operations. Critics say this continued leniency reflects gross administrative failure and raises serious questions about oversight in Jharkhand’s public health system.
Health Minister’s Statement Disputed
Health Minister Dr. Irfan Ansari has claimed that license renewal for blood banks falls under the central government’s jurisdiction, a statement experts say is false. Under the Central Licensing Approving Authority (CLAA) framework, licenses are issued at the state level by the state drug controller, whose approval is later reviewed by the Centre. Thus, the primary responsibility lies with the state health department, not the Centre.
Systemic Failure and Regulatory Lapse
Several government-run hospitals and medical colleges in Jharkhand are reportedly operating without valid blood bank licenses, continuing on the assumption that renewal requests are “in process.” This reflects a systemic breakdown in the regulation and monitoring of blood safety infrastructure.
