The Delhi government's health department is facing strict action over an alleged fraud worth around ₹600 crore. On the night of June 27, the Anti-Corruption Branch (ACB) arrested the former Director General of Health Services (DGHS) Dr. Vatsala Agarwal and Deputy Controller of Accounts Neeraj Chopra. Three people have been arrested so far. Prior to this, on 18 June, the ACB arrested Central Procurement Agency (CPA) chief Dr. Vijay Kumar Ranga.
According to officials, Vatsala Agarwal was allegedly involved in a multi-crore procurement scam involving medicines, surgical items and medical equipment.
The CPA, which operates under the DGHS, is accused of widespread financial irregularities in procurements totaling several hundred crores of rupees. The Directorate of Vigilance reported suspicious transactions and potential procedural irregularities, which prompted the investigation.
Procurement Through Manipulated Tenders
Investigators said that through manipulated tender processes, portable X-ray machines, bed linens and sheets, C-arm radiological equipment, anesthesia workstations, oral rehydration solution (ORS), surgical supplies, and medications were purchased at significantly inflated prices.
Based on the complaint, the agency filed a case on June 2 under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita's criminal conspiracy sections and pertinent provisions of the Prevention of Corruption Act. Procurement records, tender files, and related papers are being examined as part of the probe, according to officials.
Lieutenant Governor Orders Suspension
On May 21, Agarwal was transferred to the Guru Teg Bahadur Hospital after being removed from her position at DGHS and placed under "awaiting posting." In order to simplify disciplinary processes, Delhi Lieutenant Governor Taranjit Singh Sandhu ordered her suspension.
The ACB said that further investigation is underway to identify the role of other officials and private suppliers in the alleged scam.
"The Delhi government's health department is facing strict action over an alleged fraud worth around ₹600 crore. On the night of June 27, the…"