Around 11 blood banks in West Bengal have been barred from organising donation drives amid accusations of selling blood to other states, though they may still collect blood on site. Health officials confirmed donors received gifts like mixer grinders and cash.
Key Takeaways
- At least six blood banks are under investigation for an interstate, multi‑crore blood‑sale racket.
- 11 banks are prohibited from holding donation drives but can still collect blood at their facilities.
- Donors were offered mixer grinders, fans, clocks and cash as incentives.
Blood banks in Kolkata, Howrah, East Burdwan, West Burdwan, Nadia and North Dinajpur districts have been raided after health officials uncovered large‑scale plasma sales to private entities in Bihar, Uttar Pradesh and Gujarat.
Such sales contravene the National Blood Policy of 2002, which bans any commercial transaction of blood. The alleged racket is valued in crores, keeping the health department in the dark.
Why This Matters
BozokMedia analysis shows that illegal blood trade jeopardises patient safety, erodes public trust in the healthcare system and fuels a black‑market network that thrives on vulnerability.
"The commercialization of blood is a grave ethical breach that threatens both individual health outcomes and the integrity of the medical sector," says Dr. Ajay Singh, transfusion medicine expert.
Health Minister Sharadwat Mukherjee told reporters that donors at a camp in South 24 Parganas were offered gifts – fans, mixer grinders, clocks and even cash – contrary to policy, which permits only food, flowers, badges or certificates.
Frequently Asked Questions
Question 1: Can the barred blood banks still collect blood from donors?
Answer: Yes, they may continue onsite collection but cannot organise external donation drives.
Question 2: What penalties could be imposed if the allegations are proven?
Answer: Penalties may include license revocation, hefty fines and criminal prosecution.
