Bengal CM Mamata writes to PM Modi over revised prices of essential medicines

In a letter to the PM, Ms Banerjee referred to a notification on October 14 issued by the National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority (NPPA) under the ministry of chemicals and fertilisers fixing prices of some essential formulations used for treatment of various life-threatening diseases and conditions like tuberculosis, asthma, thalassemia, psychiatric conditions, eye problems and several other infections, wherein the prices were hiked to the extent of nearly 50%.

The CM wrote, “Only a few months back, the NPPA had upwardly revised the prices of essential medicines/formulations for treatment of diabetes, blood pressure and antibiotics, etc. It is needless to mention that such sudden and abrupt price escalation will inflict a serious hardship upon the common people who are already overburdened with the pains of treatment of the critical diseases of their near and dear ones.”

She added, “Moreover, such price escalation will cause an overwhelming strain on the budgets of states like West Bengal who provide drugs and treatment to patients free of cost. I am sure you will agree that this unforeseen price increase poses a considerable challenge to the efforts of the states and the country as a whole to provide affordable healthcare. It disrupts the accessibility of indispensable treatments, potentially hindering public health outcomes and increasing the burden on the healthcare systems.”

Ms Banerjee pointed out, “Already reeling under the adverse effects of high prices of day-to-day consumables and associated requirements of life and livelihood, this escalation of prices of essential and life-saving drugs will deliver a serious blow to the common people and hence should be avoided to the extent possible.”

She told Mr Modi, “I urge upon your kind office to issue directions to the concerned ministry to immediately reconsider the decision on the price escalation in the overall interest of the health and wellbeing of the common people.”