Case referred to CVC

Tribune News Service

Chandigarh, April 28

The Haryana Government has referred the case of irregularities made in the purchase of Raxil medicine during the tenure of the previous government to the Central Vigilance Commission (CVC) for inquiry after obtaining approval from Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar.

“The state suffered a loss of about Rs 80 crore in the purchase of Raxil, a fungicide. The CVC will refer the matter to the CBI for investigation,” Agriculture Minister OP Dhankar, stated at a press conference today.

He said for the first time Karnal Bunt disease had been detected in the wheat crop at Karnal and the seeds were being treated. The previous government began purchasing Raxil in 2010-11 for treatment of this disease and bought fungicide worth about Rs 100 crore.

“Though it was not registered with the Pesticide Management Board, Raxil was recommended for Karnal Bunt in the state. Raxil is available for Rs 1,350 per kg whereas generic medicine costs Rs 300 per kg. Soon after coming to power, the BJP Government recommended use of the generic medicine because it is cheaper than Raxil,” he said.

Dhankar added though not registered, an advertisement was got printed in favour of the medicine of Bayer Company. “The issue was also brought to the standing committee of Parliament which resented one-sided promotion. Since the matter also involves funds from the National Agriculture Development Plan, the state government is committed to take action. Therefore, the matter has been sent to CVC after getting approval of the Chief Minister,” he stated.

When asked about the investigation report on this matter, Dhankar said the CVC would fix responsibility. On alleged irregularities in the purchase of medicine for the yellow rust disease found in wheat, Dhankar said if any irregularity was found, investigation would be done and action would be taken.