AIIMS recalls two syringe batches over quality concerns in a single month; probe sought

The Union Health Ministry has been urged to investigate the repeated recall of disposable syringe batches at the All-India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi, and the possible implications for patient safety.

In a letter written to Union Health Minister J.P. Nadda, on Wednesday (June 10, 2026), Member of Rajya Sabha Haris Beeran said that in the past month, two separate recall notices were issued within a span of three weeks for disposable 10 ml syringes with needles supplied by different manufacturers, citing quality-related complaints.

“The development has raised concerns over medical device safety and quality assurance protocols in premier healthcare institutions,’’ he said. He added that the notices issued by the Hospital Stores, AIIMS, include the first recall notice dated May 5, 2026, which directed the return of Batch No. 10DSR243, manufactured by M/s Noble Pharmacare Limited under the brand name Edgex, within 48 hours. The notice was issued after complaints were received regarding the quality of the syringes supplied to the institute.

In a subsequent communication dated May 26, 2026, AIIMS ordered the recall of another batch, No. 260433, manufactured by M/s Veekay Surgicals Pvt. Ltd., again citing concerns related to product quality and directing its immediate return from use.

“The back-to-back recall orders involving two different suppliers have prompted questions regarding procurement oversight, inspection mechanisms, and quality control checks governing the supply of critical medical consumables in public healthcare institutions. Syringes, being among the most frequently used disposable medical devices in hospitals, are considered critical for infection control and patient safety,’’ Mr. Beeran said.

Stating that any compromise in the quality of such devices could potentially expose patients to serious health risks, including infection and procedural complications, the member said that the repeated nature of the complaints has therefore intensified scrutiny of the existing regulatory and monitoring framework.

The MP has asked that the Health Ministry seek a detailed and time-bound inquiry report into the circumstances that led to the issuance of the recall notices and identify specific defects reported in the affected batches. “An assessment of whether any patients were adversely impacted should be looked into,’’ he added.

Additionally, prompt corrective and remedial measures have been sought to be put in place to ensure accountability and strengthen quality assurance systems.

“Given the sensitivity of the matter and its implications for public health, emphasis has been placed on maintaining transparency and safeguarding patient welfare across healthcare facilities in the country,’’ said the member.