File photo of Union Health Minister JP Nadda (right)
The Centre has set no targets as far as sterilisation was concerned and it was a totally demand-driven programme, Union Health Minister J.P. Nadda said on Thursday.
Mr Nadda said in a statement that on the request of Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Raman Singh, the Centre had sent a team of doctors from AIIMS which supervised the medical treatment to the affected patients, after 13 women died and close to 70 were admitted in hospital following a mass sterilisation drive in the state.
The health minister said the team of doctors has provided necessary guidance and support to the team of treating doctors in order to ensure that the best possible care is being provided to the affected.
Mr Nadda said he was in continuous touch with the Chhattisgarh chief minister.
He said a judicial inquiry has been ordered by the state government, and the Centre will provide all necessary assistance for the inquiry.
Mr Nadda said it was a misconception that family planning was a target-driven programme.
"On the contrary, it is a target-free, promotional and a demand driven programme."