Kolkata, 07 August (H.S.) : The Calcutta High Court on Friday sought a detailed report from the West Bengal government on its decision to suspend outdoor voluntary blood donation camps organised by 11 private blood banks, after the order was challenged before the court.

Hearing the matter, Justice Krishna Rao directed the state government to submit a comprehensive status report on the ongoing inquiry by August 14. The next hearing has been scheduled for August 19.

The litigation follows an order issued by the State Blood Transfusion Council under the Health Department, which came into effect on August 1, temporarily prohibiting 11 private blood banks from organising voluntary blood donation camps outside their premises and collecting blood through such camps.

According to the state government, the action was taken after surprise inspections of several private blood banks allegedly revealed serious irregularities, prompting a detailed investigation. The restriction will remain in force until the inquiry is completed.

The Health Department said the investigation is examining allegations including collection of blood beyond the permitted limits, failure to adhere to mandatory safety protocols during blood donation camps, and the alleged sale of blood components such as red blood cells (RBCs) and plasma to other states without valid authorisation.

The state clarified that the restriction applies only to outdoor blood donation camps. The affected private blood banks are permitted to continue collecting blood within their own hospitals or institutional premises, subject to prescribed norms and under the supervision of qualified personnel.

The 11 private blood banks covered by the order are located in Sonarpur, Entally, Jodhpur Park, Alipore Road, Padmapukur, Beliaghata, Howrah, Krishnanagar, Raiganj, Purba Bardhaman and Andal.

Hindusthan Samachar / Satya Prakash Singh