Nishant Kumar elected as Bihar MLC, warns against corruption in health dept

Patna, June 12 (IANS) After becoming a Member of Legislative Council (MLC), Bihar Health Minister Nishant Kumar adopted an assertive stance regarding governance and healthcare administration in the state.

He issued strict instructions to Civil Surgeons across the state on Thursday to improve hospital facilities and eliminate irregularities within two weeks.

Addressing the media after receiving his election certificate, Nishant Kumar said that corruption would not be tolerated under any circumstances and warned that he would personally conduct surprise inspections if conditions failed to improve.

“I have instructed all Civil Surgeons to rectify irregularities in their respective jurisdictions within two weeks. If improvements are not visible, I will form a team and personally inspect hospitals,” the Health Minister added.

He also emphasised that strict action would be taken against government officials found involved in corruption or administrative negligence.

“Operations in the Health Department must be conducted honestly. No irregularity or corrupt practice will be tolerated. The strictest action will be taken against any corrupt official or office-bearer,” he asserted.

Nishant Kumar also referred to a recent incident at Patna Medical College and Hospital (PMCH), where relatives of a patient were allegedly assaulted.

He said he had directed the PMCH Superintendent Rajiva Kumar Singh to ensure that such incidents are not repeated.

“I have given a two-week deadline to rectify the situation at PMCH. If such incidents continue, action will be taken against those responsible,” he added.

After his election, Nishant Kumar was warmly welcomed by Janata Dal-United leaders and party workers.

Supporters greeted him with bouquets and congratulated him on entering the Bihar Legislative Council.

Observers noted that Nishant Kumar appeared visibly pleased and confident while interacting with JD-U workers and the media.

During his address, the Bihar Health Minister expressed gratitude to party leaders and workers for placing their trust in him and pledged to fulfill his responsibilities with integrity and dedication.

“The party leadership and workers have shown faith in me. I will strive to live up to their expectations and carry out my duties honestly,” Minister Nishant Kumar said.

Recalling the political principles associated with his father and former Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, Nishant Kumar added that he would uphold a strict stand against crime, corruption, and communalism.

“My father (Nitish Kumar) has always maintained that there can be no compromise on issues of crime, corruption, and communalism. I will follow the same path,” he remarked.

–IANS

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