The Anti-Corruption Branch (ACB) has made a significant breakthrough in the alleged multi-crore scam surrounding the Central Procurement Agency (CPA), linked to the health department in Delhi. The investigation focuses on irregularities related to the procurement process that is meant to supply medical resources to government healthcare facilities. Following a complaint from the Delhi government’s vigilance department, authorities arrested Dr Vinod Kumar Ranga, the former Head of Office of the CPA, on June 18.

Dr Ranga, who previously worked with the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS), faces allegations of manipulating procurement rules to favour certain suppliers. The ACB’s investigation suggests that prices for medical equipment and supplies may have been inflated, potentially resulting in severe financial losses for the government.

Major Procurement Orders Under Investigation

The ACB is scrutinising multiple significant procurement orders, including but not limited to portable X-ray machines, C-arm radiological machines, anaesthesia workstations, and various essential medicines and surgical consumables. The agency is particularly focused on how the technical specifications for these purchases were outlined, how pricing was determined, and whether the tender processes were structured to restrict competition and favour specific companies.

Investigation into the procurement process reveals that multiple committees were involved, including the Specifications Committee and the Price Bid Evaluation Committee, comprised of department heads and medical professionals from various government institutions. This oversight raises questions about the integrity of these procedures and the potential collusion among individuals in different roles.

Missing Files Prompt Further Examination

A critical aspect of the investigation has emerged regarding numerous procurement-related files that were reportedly missing from official records. Investigators state that vital documents pertinent to medical purchases were allegedly under Dr Ranga’s control and that he could not provide credible explanations for their absence during interrogations.

The court granted police custody for four days on June 19 for Dr Ranga to facilitate further questioning, suggesting that investigators aim to uncover deeper insights into the procurement irregularities. The missing files may play a crucial role in determining the extent of the malpractice and holding accountable those involved.

As the investigation unfolds, the ACB reportedly aims to review the involvement of over 100 doctors and officials who participated in the procurement process, signalling a broadening of the scope of their inquiry beyond just Dr Ranga.

CM Proposes Transfers for 39 Doctors Amid Investigation

In light of the ongoing investigation, Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta has recommended the transfer of 39 doctors who have served in Tihar and Mandoli jails for a duration of five years or longer. This recommendation, sent to Lieutenant Governor Taranjit Singh Sandhu, is viewed as part of efforts to address any potential links to the alleged corrupt activities.

The proposed transfers include both specialist doctors and General Duty Medical Officers (GDMOs), many of whom have been stationed at these facilities for over a decade. Some have reportedly been in position since 2014, raising concerns about the stagnation of medical personnel within the system.

Additionally, the Chief Minister’s Office disclosed plans to deploy approximately 35 new doctors to these locations as replacements, ensuring continuity of care while the investigation is ongoing.

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