# Manpower needs a maximum of 2,500, but there are currently 5,600 working
# Allegations of hiring additional people against the former managing director
According to the production capacity of Essential Drugs Company Limited (EDCL) under the Ministry of Health, a maximum of 2,500 manpower is needed. But 5,600 people work there. More than 3,000 additional people have been appointed during the tenure of former Managing Director Professor Ehsanul Kabir. There are allegations that additional appointments have been made in exchange for money.
Not only recruitment in EDCL, irregularities and corruption have also been done in the purchase and business of goods. Top officials have done business with EDCL themselves by creating business entities. After the new government took office, the health ministry said there were allegations of irregularities and corruption against the managing director of EDCL. The Health Ministry has requested the Home Ministry to take necessary steps so that he cannot leave the country.
Ehsanul Kabir resigned from the post of managing director (MD) of EDCL on October 2. The next day, the Ministry of Health issued a notification for the appointment of a new MD. Dermatologist Ehsanul Kabir is a member of the central committee of Awami League-backed doctors' organization Swachip. He was appointed MD in 2014. At present, he is the health affairs secretary of Lakshmipur district Awami League.
According to EDCL sources, 2,577 people were working in the company in 2014 when Ehsanul Kabir took over as MD. There were still more people than needed. Still, people have been increased on a regular basis. A powerful clique comprising the MD, several senior officials and Sramik League leaders worked here. In the last 10 years, 3,100 more people have been appointed. During this time, people of two districts got more work here. It is alleged that they took Tk 50,000 to Tk 2 to 3 lakh from each appointment.
According to the sources, in the fiscal year 2023-24, four business companies have made medicines worth Tk 600 crore of EDCL. In exchange for financial gains, these companies make medicines to EDCL. A special circle within EDCL has sustained this toll manufacturing system. Without increasing their capacity, without making the most of their current capacity, they have been making their own medicines in others' factories for years.
Public health expert Mushtaq Hossain said rampant recruitment, illegal business and other corruption have crippled the state institution. This cannot be allowed to continue. It's time to rebuild the organization. Besides, punishment of the culprits should be ensured by investigating corruption and irregularities.
ZH
