Congress Alleges Total Collapse of Tripura’s Healthcare Under BJP Rule

Speedy Summary

• The Opposition Congress has criticised the BJP-led government in Tripura, alleging the State’s health-care system has “entirely collapsed” despite Chief Minister Manik Saha being a doctor.
• Congress spokesperson Prabir chakraborty accused the government of prioritising corruption and negligence over delivering quality health care.
• Key findings from a Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare report show Tripura ranked first among northeastern States in malaria and chikungunya cases despite its relatively small population (44 lakh). Malaria cases accounted for nearly half of Northeast’s total with 22,412 cases recorded in 2023. Chikungunya cases increased from 1,557 in 2023 to 2,452 by December 2024.
• Reports highlighted an alarming rise in HIV infections: between January-November 2024,out of 12,660 people tested,1,237 were found positive.
• Allegations surfaced regarding corruption in medical recruitments; candidates with low scores (14-15 marks out of 100) were allegedly appointed as medical officers.
• Congress urged Chief Minister Saha to implement tangible reforms instead of focusing on superficial projects.

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Indian Opinion Analysis

The allegations underscore pressing concerns within Tripura’s public health infrastructure. Data showing high incidence rates for malaria, chikungunya, and rising HIV infections point to systemic vulnerabilities that demand immediate attention beyond political critique. If true, reported inefficiencies-including alleged corruption during medical recruitment-could further erode trust between citizens and institutions.

Tripura faces unique challenges as one of India’s smaller States with limited resources compared to larger counterparts like Assam. Though, these issues reflect broader governance dilemmas frequently enough seen across regions where policymaking leans towards optics over substantive service delivery-a recurring criticism across sectors nationwide.

To ensure sustainable progress on public health outcomes-and avoid political blame cycles-the focus should remain solidly on implementing evidence-based policies that strengthen both preventative care measures and institutional openness.

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