Delhi CM blames AAP govt for underreported Covid deaths

New Delhi

Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta on Tuesday accused the previous Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government of under-reporting Covid-19 deaths, stating that only 97 fatalities were officially recorded during the pandemic. Speaking on National Doctors’ Day, she said the actual toll was much higher, as evident from long queues outside crematoriums.

She said the truth came to light while processing compensation files for families of Covid victims. Gupta also criticized the AAP’s claims of a world-class health system, saying Delhi has only 0.42 government hospital beds per 1,000 people—well below the WHO’s recommended two beds. Including central and private sectors, the total is just 0.5 beds per 1,000.

Highlighting the theme of this year’s Doctors’ Day—Behind the Mask, Who Will Heal the Healer—Gupta stressed the importance of supporting medical staff with better working conditions, staff, and facilities to manage high OPD loads.

She praised government doctors for their commitment, saying they continue to serve despite difficult conditions. Our doctors are highly qualified and empathetic, and we are proud of their service, she said.

On social media, she posted a tribute to doctors, noting that several were honored for their contributions. She said their dedication is helping improve healthcare delivery and build a more inclusive and efficient system for Delhi's future.