May 20, 2024: The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has issued a notice to two scientists at Banaras Hindu University (BHU) questioning the methodology and findings of their research on the Covaxin vaccine.
The study, conducted by the Department of Pharmacology and Geriatrics, claimed to find significant side effects in people who received the Covaxin vaccine, including stroke, blood clots, hair loss, and skin problems.
Dr. Rajiv Bahl, Director General of the Indian Council of Medical Research , issued a strong statement condemning the study. “The ICMR was erroneously acknowledged in the report,” Dr. Bahl declared. “We were not associated with this study in any way and provided no financial or technical support for this research.”
The controversial study, conducted by researchers at Banaras Hindu University (BHU), reportedly linked Covaxin to a range of concerning side effects. However, the Indian Council of Medical Research’s scathing response throws serious doubt on the study’s validity. The lack of involvement from India’s premier research body raises questions about the research methodology and the accuracy of its findings.
Questions Raised by ICMR about COVAXIN BHU Study, Sends Notice and Strong Objection
- Lack of Proper Methodology: Indian Council of Medical Research highlighted the absence of a clear comparative analysis between vaccinated and unvaccinated individuals, rendering the study inconclusive regarding the link between Covaxin and the reported side effects.
- Missing Baseline Data: The report reportedly failed to mention any pre-existing health conditions in the study participants, making it impossible to determine if the side effects were vaccine-related.
- Questionable Data Collection: The study relied on self-reported data collected via phone calls a year after vaccination, raising concerns about accuracy and potential bias.
- Misrepresentation of Indian Council of Medical Research Involvement: The ICMR strongly objected to the association of their name with the study or its report.
The Indian Council of Medical Research has expressed strong objection to the research of scientists. The council has sent a notice to the two scientists of BHU who conducted the study, seeking their answers. Furthermore the council has take a serious view by disassociating with the study and its report in any way. Those who studied have been asked why legal and administrative action should not be taken against them in this matter.
Recently, in a study conducted by the Department of Pharmacology and Geriatrics of BHU, it was reported that there were significant side effects in teenagers and adults taking Covaxin. Based on the study, the report said that more than 30 percent people had to face health problems due to this. After
the publication of this report, Bharat Biotech reaffirmed that its vaccine is safe, and it is backed by large scale human clinical trials, validated by several peer reviews in well know medical journals of global repute.
The BHU study was conducted by the Head of Geriatrics Department, Prof. Shubh Shankh Chakraborty and Dr.Upinder Kaur of the Department of Pharmacology. It was told that due to the effect of Covaxin, people are facing problems like stroke, blood clot, hair fall, skin problems etc.
Indian Council of Medical Research Director General Dr. Rajeev Bahl on Saturday met Prof. In the notice sent to Chakraborty and Dr. Kaur, it has been clearly stated that the part related to the Council should be immediately removed from this report and regrets should be expressed in this regard. Dr. Bahl has also said that no approval was taken from ICMR for this study. It has also come to notice that ICMR was wrongly included in some reports published earlier. In such a situation, explain why the council should not take action against you
Flawed Covaxin Study by BHU: Report sent to the Vice Chancellor, committee formed for investigation.
A report has been sought from SN Sankhwar. The director has submitted the report to him. The director has also admitted that the research has been done in a
hurry. Along with this, he asked IMS Dean Research Prof. to investigate this research. A four-member committee has been formed under the leadership of Gopalnath. The situation will become more clear after the committee’s investigation report comes.
What’s Next?
The ICMR’s statement has ignited a firestorm. Questions remain about the BHU study. It’s critical to await further developments, including any potential investigation into the research and its outcome. In the meantime, the public should rely on information from reputable sources like the ICMR and Ministry of Health for accurate updates on vaccine safety and efficacy
