Massive Corruption Scandal Rocks Delhi's Healthcare Projects

The Anti-Corruption Branch (ACB) has taken significant legal action against former Delhi Health Ministers Saurabh Bhardwaj and Satyendar Jain, charging them with large-scale corruption concerning health infrastructure projects of the Delhi government. The police uncovered startling cost overruns and delays in 24 hospital projects, with collective costs soaring to Rs 5,590 crores between 2018 and 2019.

According to Joint Commissioner of Police Madhur Verma, the investigation revealed substantial irregularities in the construction of hospitals and ICU facilities citywide. Not a single project met its timeline, sparking concerns of financial embezzlement. The case, registered after obtaining approval under Section 17A of the Prevention of Corruption Act, came in response to a complaint by current Delhi Assembly Speaker Vijendra Gupta, who initially raised the red flags as Leader of Opposition.

Verification efforts showed incomplete projects with unjustified cost escalations and unauthorized constructions. Notably, the Rs 1,125 crore ICU Hospital Project remains half-finished despite significant expenditure. The New Block at LNJP Hospital, awarded to Swadeshi Civil Infrastructure Pvt Ltd, saw costs more than double, while allegations of non-implemented public health systems add to the controversy. ACB has filed an FIR, including charges under Section 13(1) of the Prevention of Corruption Act and various sections of the IPC, to unveil the conspiracy fully.

(With inputs from agencies.)