Karnataka witnessed its seventh dengue-related death this season as Premkumar, a 13-year-old from Chalageri village in Haveri district, succumbed after a week-long fever. The state has recorded a total of 7,362 dengue infections, prompting differing opinions from political parties on declaring a medical emergency.
Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao assured that the Health Department was actively monitoring dengue control efforts, emphasizing adequate availability of beds and medicines statewide. Despite calls from the BJP to declare dengue a medical emergency due to widespread infections, Rao, citing consultations with the Technical Advisory Committee (TAC) on dengue, stated that current facilities were sufficient to manage the situation.
A political rift ensued when BJP leaders criticized Rao’s swimming video amidst the dengue crisis, accusing the government of negligence. In response, Rao defended his fitness routine while condemning what he termed as misleading statements from the opposition. He urged for a scientific approach in addressing the dengue outbreak and cautioned against spreading panic.
Meanwhile, the BJP’s demands included free dengue testing at health centers and intensified mosquito control measures across Karnataka. This debate highlighted contrasting views on handling public health emergencies and underscored the need for unified efforts amidst escalating dengue cases.
