The West Bengal Health Department has barred 11 blood banks from organising blood donation camps across the state until further notice while investigating allegations of serious irregularities, including the illegal sale of blood collected in West Bengal to other states.
According to Health Department officials, the restriction will remain in force until the ongoing investigation is completed. The probe is being conducted by the State Blood Transfusion Board following allegations that some blood banks illegally sold blood and plasma collected in West Bengal to other states for financial gain.
A notification issued by the Health Department states that the ban on organising blood donation camps came into effect from August 1.
Officials clarified that while the blood banks cannot organise camps outside their institutions, they may continue collecting blood and carrying out related activities within their premises. However, all such procedures must be performed only by trained personnel and in accordance with prescribed guidelines.
The Health Department has also directed the State Blood Transfusion Board to closely monitor major blood transactions across the state during the investigation.
Earlier, Health Department officials conducted searches at multiple locations in Kolkata and other districts as part of the probe into alleged irregularities linked to blood donation camps. Several documents were reportedly seized during the operation.
Sources said some blood banks had organised donation camps without obtaining the required permission from the Health Department. Investigators are also examining allegations of irregularities in blood collection and claims that red blood cells and plasma were sold to other states at premium prices.
Authorities said no new blood donation camps will be permitted for the 11 blood banks until the investigation is completed.
With Inputs From IANS
