The Samajwadi Party today accused the Uttar Pradesh government of encouraging corrupt practices at Gorakhpur's state-run Baba Raghav Das Medical College, where nearly 60 children died allegedly due to disruption in supply of liquid oxygen last year.
"Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath says his government has zero tolerance for corruption. But in his home town, BRD Medical College is involved in a scam of Rs 5 lakh per month in purchase of liquid oxygen," SP district president Prahlad Yadav said.
"During previous governments, the medical college used to purchase liquid oxygen at the rate of Rs 16.50 per litre. After August 10 last year, the hospital started purchasing liquid oxygen directly from a company in Rajasthan at the rate of Rs 19.39 per litre. The consumption of liquid oxygen at the college is from 1.20 lakh to 1.50 lakh litre liquid oxygen gas per month. During peak months like August, the consumption is even more," Yadav said, alleging a scam of around Rs 5 lakh per month.
Asked about the source of his information, Yadav did not offer any.
"We have our sources and we know it. If government wants to say something, they should come out with proof to deny the allegations made by us."