Lokayukta surprise visit exposes lapses at state-run cancer hospital in Bengaluru
Bengaluru: The Karnataka Lokayukta has initiated a suo motu probe into alleged mismanagement, irregularities, and malpractice at Kidwai Memorial Cancer Hospital following an anonymous complaint.
Citing concerns that prior intimation could lead to evidence being tampered with, Lokayukta Justice B.S. Patil carried out a surprise inspection of the hospital on Friday.
According to a report published by The Hindu, several lapses were revealed during the visit. The hospital is currently overseen by an IAS officer holding additional charge as administrative head, who visits only once a week.
A shortage of doctors and support staff was also flagged, raising concerns over the hospital’s ability to handle its patient load.
At the Central Drug Store, officials said that 40% of drug costs are borne by the state government and 60% by the Centre, making high-cost medicines available at subsidised rates. However, patients reportedly complained that essential drugs such as Enzalutamide 160 mg and Exylete were often unavailable at the hospital pharmacy, with some staff allegedly directing them to private stores to purchase the medicines. The Lokayukta directed the hospital director to take immediate action against such practices and submit a compliance report.
Justice B.S. Patil further ordered the inspection team to conduct a department-wide audit and prepare a detailed report on the irregularities reported at the hospital.
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IPL 2026 to be held between March 26-May 31 window
Mumbai (PTI): The upcoming edition of the Indian Premier League will be held between the March 26 to May 31 window but it remains to be seen if Bengaluru, the home of RCB, holds the opening match.
As per the norms, the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium should host the tournament opener given the home side, Royal Challengers Bengaluru won the IPL 2025 title.
While the venue has received conditional clearance from the Karnataka state government, it also needs to meet the necessary safety and security standards following the death of 11 fans in a stampede during RCB's victory celebrations in June this year.
The mini-auction for IPL 2026 will be held in Abu Dhabi today with three-time winners Kolkata Knight Riders coming in with the biggest purse.
