AIIMS recalls two batches of syringes due to quality issues in a single month; the probe was looking for

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

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

“The development has raised concerns about the safety of medical devices and quality assurance protocols at leading healthcare facilities,” he said. He added that the notices issued by Hospital Stores, AIIMS include the first recall notice dated May 5, 2026, which ordered the return of Batch No. 10DSR243, manufactured by M/s Noble Pharmacare Limited, after receiving the notice under E48 hours after receiving the complaint under E8. quality of syringes delivered 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 the quality of the product and directing its immediate withdrawal from use.

“The binding recall orders involving two different suppliers have raised questions about the procurement oversight, control mechanisms and quality controls that govern the supply of critical medical supplies in public health facilities. Syringes, which are among the most commonly used single-use medical devices in hospitals, are considered critical for infection control and patient safety,” said Mr. Beeran.

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

The MP asked the Ministry of Health to request a detailed and time-bound investigation report into the circumstances that led to the issuance of the recall notice and to identify the specific defects reported in the affected batches. “An assessment of whether some patients were adversely affected should be explored,” he added.

In addition, it sought to introduce prompt remedial and corrective actions 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 ensuring the welfare of patients in the country’s healthcare facilities,” the member said.

Published – 10 Jun 2026 23:25 IST