The TDP national president and former Chief Minister has taken strong objection to the government suspending a doctor over his allegation about the lack of personal protection equipment for the health workers treating COVID-19 patients.

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"Dr. Sudhakar opened up about the lack of masks and gloves at Narsipatnam Govt Hospital which is the minimum responsibility of Andhra Pradesh Government. Instead of addressing the issue, the doctor was suspended. His only crime was to demand for an N-95 mask. This is utterly shocking," the Chief Minister said. "If frontline medical soldiers are disrespected like this, how will the Chief Minister motivate them enough to expose themselves to risk in order to protect others. Doctors and healthcare staff must be protected and cared for during these terrible times," he added.

Dr Sudhakar Rao, anesthetist of Narsipatnam Area hospital, had made allegations about the lack of masks and other medical gear. Later, YSRCP leaders claimed that the doctor has close links with TDP, and he spent a considerable amount of time with the TDP senior leader before making the allegations.