Buxar: RJD MP from Buxar, Sudhakar Singh, on Saturday wrote to PM Narendra Modi expressing concerns over the introduction of the HPV vaccine in the name of preventing cervical cancer.In his letter, Singh alleged that the HPV vaccine is not a preventive measure against cervical cancer and claimed it could adversely affect women’s reproductive health. He argued that cervical cancer has not historically posed a major public health challenge in India and attributed lower incidence rates to socio-cultural factors.
Referring to earlier vaccine trials conducted in parts of the country, Singh cited reports of alleged irregularities and health complications among participants. He mentioned that a Rajya Sabha standing committee on health had in the past examined the matter and recommended suspension of certain trials and an independent probe into the process.The MP further questioned the govt’s decision to expand access to the HPV vaccine without what he described as a fresh independent investigation. Drawing comparisons with the Covid-19 vaccination campaign, Singh said that while the govt had termed Covid vaccination voluntary, various restrictions during the pandemic created indirect pressure on citizens to get vaccinated.He maintained that if the Centre is confident about the safety and efficacy of the HPV vaccine, it should keep the programme voluntary and focus on awareness campaigns. He suggested that eligible beneficiaries could be offered the vaccine free of cost at primary health centres rather than through what he termed a compulsory approach. Singh also raised concerns about demographic trends, noting that India’s population growth rate has declined in recent years. He cautioned that any policy perceived as affecting fertility could have long-term social implications.The Centre has consistently maintained that vaccines included in the national immunisation programme undergo rigorous scientific evaluation and regulatory approval before rollout.
