In a shocking turn of events, the ongoing investigation into the embezzlement of funds in the procurement of non-essential equipment for government hospitals has taken a dramatic twist. The statements of the former Director General of Health Services, recorded during the inquiry, have shed light on the magnitude of the misappropriation that has taken place.
Allegations of Unnecessary Equipment Purchases Surface
The investigation has revealed that a committee, comprising officers from the Health Secretariat and the Directorate, purchased various types of equipment without the input or request of health officers from the districts. These purchases were made at the central rate, disregarding the actual needs of the hospitals.
According to sources, after the equipment was supplied to the hospitals, numerous complaints were lodged stating that the purchased equipment was unnecessary. It became evident that the sole purpose behind these purchases was to expend funds. Former District Health Officers (DHOs), including the ex-DHO of Nowshera, and medical superintendents from multiple districts raised concerns over this issue. Surprisingly, these complaints were also brought to the attention of the Ministry of Health, but the then Health Secretary chose to disregard them entirely.
It has now been revealed that the former health officers received crores of rupees in commissions related to these transactions. The National Accountability Bureau (NAB) has initiated an inquiry against these individuals. Furthermore, five former Director Generals of the Health Department have recently been summoned to provide evidence in the ongoing investigation.
Sources allege that high-ranking officials are involved in this corruption scandal, resulting in a loss of crores of rupees to the national exchequer. This revelation has shaken the public’s confidence in the health department and raises serious questions about the management of public funds.