Illegal Inter-State Blood Trade Exposed: West Bengal Launches Criminal Investigation
Health officials have uncovered a multi-crore racket involving the unauthorized sale of blood products to multiple states. At least six regional blood banks face scrutiny for violating the National Blood Policy through illegal commercialization.
Key takeaways
- Health officials suspended donation drives for 11 facilities across West Bengal following allegations of illegal inter-state blood trafficking.
- Plasma supplies were reportedly sold to private entities in Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, and Gujarat in violation of the 2002 National Blood Policy.
- Investigators found donors were being illegally incentivized with cash, mixer grinders, and other appliances at camps in South 24 Parganas.
- The multi-crore racket involved prominent institutions including Kothari Medical, Ashok Laboratory, and Health Point Hospital.
Systemic Violations of National Blood Policy
West Bengal health authorities are dismantling a sophisticated inter-state network accused of trafficking blood and plasma for profit. Investigators revealed that high volumes of plasma were diverted from local supplies and sold to private entities in Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, and Gujarat. This commercial activity flatly violates the National Blood Policy established in 2002, which strictly prohibits the sale of human blood.
Restricted Operations and Institutional Oversight
Effective August 1, the state government imposed strict limitations on 11 specific facilities to prevent further unauthorized distribution. While these entities may still collect blood from walk-in donors at their primary centers, they are currently barred from organizing external donation drives. The investigation has already resulted in raids across several districts, including:
- Kolkata and Howrah
- East and West Burdwan
- Nadia and North Dinajpur
The list of institutions under the microscope includes well-known medical facilities and pathology laboratories such as Ashok Laboratory, Life Care, Kothari Medical, and Health Point Hospital. Officials estimate the illicit trade is valued at several crores, managed entirely outside the view of state regulators.
Prohibited Inducements for Donors
Health Minister Sharadwat Mukherjee detailed unethical recruitment tactics used to secure blood supplies. During a donation event in South 24 Parganas, organizers reportedly bypassed standard protocols by offering physical rewards to participants. Dr. Mukherjee clarified that while certificates, badges, or light refreshments are acceptable, the distribution of high-value items is a legal violation.
Authorities documented donors receiving various commodities and cash, including:
- Mixer grinders and electric fans
- Wall clocks
- Direct monetary payments
The health department continues to audit records to determine the full scale of the operation and identify any additional private collaborators involved in the procurement and transport of these biological assets.
Source: The Hindu — National
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