The Orissa High Court has issued a stern rebuke to the Odisha State Medical Corporation Limited (OSMCL) for its failure to establish a proper mechanism for the emergency procurement of critical medical equipment. The court has directed the managing director of the corporation to appear personally before it on December 11 to explain the lapses.
Root of the Controversy: Alleged Non-Supply to SCB Hospital
The case before the court originates from serious allegations regarding the non-supply of essential medical equipment to the SCB Medical College and Hospital (SCBMCH) in Cuttack. This premier government healthcare institution has reportedly been facing shortages due to procedural bottlenecks in the supply chain managed by OSMCL.
In its defence, OSMCL had previously outlined its standard procurement cycle to the court. The corporation detailed an elaborate process that can take between six to nine months after receiving necessary approvals. This lengthy cycle involves multiple stages including technical vetting, e-tendering, pre-bid meetings, equipment demonstrations, evaluations, and final price negotiations.
Court's Firm Stance on Emergency Needs
A bench comprising Justices S K Sahoo and V Narasingh expressed clear dissatisfaction with OSMCL's explanation. The justices emphasized that such prolonged timelines are completely unsuitable for addressing medical emergencies, where timely access to equipment can be a matter of life and death.
The court reiterated the urgent need for a dedicated, fast-track procurement mechanism to handle critical situations. It noted with disapproval that OSMCL had not complied with earlier judicial directions to devise and implement an expedited procurement system for emergencies.
OSMCL's Defence and Judicial Scrutiny
While OSMCL claimed in its filings that it "endeavours" to supply equipment at the earliest despite procedural hurdles, the court found this assurance inadequate. The bench observed that mere endeavours are not sufficient when public health and patient care are at stake.
The court's order to summon the managing director underscores the seriousness with which it views the corporation's failure to create a separate, swift channel for emergency purchases. This move is seen as a step to ensure accountability at the highest level of the state medical supplies agency.
The upcoming hearing on December 11 is now keenly awaited, as it will determine the next course of action and potentially set a precedent for how medical procurement emergencies are handled by state agencies in Odisha and possibly beyond.
