Last year, while working on the story on Bhopal Gas Victims on the 20th anniversary of the accident, Down To Earth had sent a set of questions to ICMR on certain clarifications. We welcome their response, which reached us now. We just wish that it hadn't reached 5 months late! -- Editor
Most studies had revealed that the exposure had adverse effects on health. How have these been used to provide better healthcare for victims?
Sodium thiosulphate (NATS) had been found effective in reducing the toxicity of the chemicals and ICMR had recommended its use. Why was it still not administered to the patients? Did ICMR try to pressurise the government?
Why was the research terminated? According to an ICMR document, a review committee had recommended the closure of projects. Who were the people in this committee and what was the rationale behind this decision?
Why haven't the results of the studies been published even 19 years after the disaster? Why is the preparation of the report taking so long considering that the ICMR centre in Bhopal published a report every year?
The Bhopal cancer registry was to compare the cancer rates between the exposed and non-exposed people. But the registry report does not distinguish between these. Justify. Will remedial steps be taken? What is the status of cancer incidence in exposed people?
No absolutes in corruption
Fellow, Ashoka Trust for Research in Ecology and the Environment
Bangalore
desikan@giasmd01.vsnl.net.in
Biologistics International
Ellicott City, MD, USA
Former chief secretary to government of Madhya Pradesh
Bhopal
