In response to the allegations made by independent MLA Saryu Roy over misappropriation of funds, Jharkhand Health Minister Banna Gupta said that no funds were withdrawn from the Covid-19 incentive approved by the state health department for his cell, adding that the scheme has been cancelled. “He blamed me of illegally withdrawing crores of rupees. No funds withdrawn. I’ve decided to cancel incentive on moral grounds and distribute it among needy,” he said.

“The incentive was approved by health department and estimated expenditure for minister’s cell was Rs 14.59 lakhs. As of now, no amount has been credited to any account. If Roy has proof, he should mention to and from which bank account the money got transferred, respectively,” he added.