Kolkata: In a significant development, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) has initiated an investigation into alleged financial irregularities at the renowned RG Kar Medical College and Hospital in Kolkata. This probe follows a First Information Report (FIR) registered by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) under the directive of the Calcutta High Court. The inquiry centres on accusations of corruption during the tenure of former hospital principal Sandeep Ghosh and others.
The ED has now lodged a case of money laundering connected to these alleged financial malpractices. The investigation will focus on the banking and medical procurement records of hospitals and medical colleges. Reports suggest that the accused, named in both the CBI complaint and the ED case, could soon face summons for interrogation and to record their statements. These individuals are suspected of being involved in fraudulent activities linked to hospital operations.
The CBI had previously conducted searches on Sunday at the premises of Sandeep Ghosh, the former medical superintendent, and 13 other individuals. The raids were part of a broader investigation into the financial misdeeds at RG Kar Hospital. This inquiry was launched following a High Court order.
The roots of this investigation trace back to a complaint lodged by Akhtar Ali, the former deputy superintendent of RG Kar Hospital. Ali alleged that during his tenure, Ghosh, in collusion with colleagues, illegally issued tenders for the construction of food stalls, cafes, and canteens without obtaining the necessary permissions from the health department and the college council. These contracts were reportedly awarded to three traders in violation of legal protocols.
In a separate but deeply troubling incident at the same institution, the body of a female doctor was discovered on 9 August with severe injuries. She had been raped and subsequently murdered. The Kolkata Police swiftly apprehended a suspect the following day. This heinous crime has sparked widespread outrage, with ongoing protests across the state and country.
As part of the ongoing investigation into the financial irregularities, the CBI team has presented their findings to the Alipore Court. They are reportedly seeking to add non-bailable charges to the case, reflecting the seriousness of the allegations.
The RG Kar Hospital case continues to unfold, with the court expected to make crucial decisions in the coming days.
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