An application has been submitted to the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) seeking an investigation into alleged irregularities and corruption in the procurement of measles and other vaccines during the tenure of the interim government, naming its then Chief Adviser Dr Muhammad Yunus and former Health Adviser Nurjahan Begum, along with several other officials.
The application was filed on Monday with the ACC chairman by Supreme Court lawyers Biplob Kumar Das and Barrister Sanaullah Noor-e-Sagar, who requested a thorough inquiry and legal action if any wrongdoing is found.
In the petition, the lawyers expressed concern over reported child deaths linked to measles outbreaks in different parts of the country. They claimed that media reports of nearly a hundred child deaths had caused widespread public concern and warranted investigation.
They also stated that shortages of measles and other essential vaccines in the national immunisation programme have contributed to rising infections. According to the application, this situation has worsened the outbreak, which they described as alarming.
The petition further alleged that changes in the vaccine procurement system during the interim government may have been implemented without adequate preparation, potentially leading to supply disruptions. It also claimed that despite a significant health sector budget allocation, estimated at around Tk 42,000 crore, vaccines and syringes were not procured in time.
The lawyers argued that failure to ensure timely immunisation, combined with lack of transparency in procurement processes, indicates possible administrative irregularities and corruption. They also cited reports in various media outlets that raised concerns over procurement practices in the health sector.
According to the application, there is a strong possibility of large-scale corruption and mismanagement in vaccine procurement and distribution during the period in question. It further stated that over a hundred children may have died and many more are receiving treatment due to the outbreak.
The petition has urged the ACC to investigate whether any irregularities or corruption occurred in vaccine procurement and immunisation activities and to take appropriate legal steps based on its findings.
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