KALABURAGI, 17 JUNE

Devotional songs and religious hymns were found written in the outpatient department (OPD) records book of the Government General Hospital in Jevargi, Kalaburagi district. The incident came to light during a surprise inspection by Lokayukta officials on Wednesday.

The visit followed the hospitalisation of students from Maradagi SA village who fell ill after consuming midday meals at their government school. Lokayukta SP Siddaraju and DySP Geeta Benal were checking on the children’s condition when they uncovered the misuse of official hospital records.

Officials found over 15 devotional verses in the OPD book, including film lyrics from Eradu Kanasu such as 'Poojisalende Hoogona Thande…', and religious lines like 'Om Asya Shri Renuka Devy Ashtottarashata Namavali' and 'Narayani Jaganmata Jagadbeeja Jagatprabha'.

Shocked by the disorder, SP Siddaraju rebuked hospital staff, questioning how such mismanagement could occur in the constituency of former chief minister Dharam Singh. He sarcastically remarked the hospital deserved the title “Number One in Mismanagement” after observing similar chaos in the pharmacy, lab, AYUSH office, and staff rooms.

Patients also complained about prescriptions being issued on unofficial slips from outside the hospital.

District Health Officer Dr Sharanabasappa Kyatanal clarified that a staff member wrote the hymns while preparing for a World Population Day event. A notice and formal warning have been issued.