In a significant development, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has launched multiple cases into alleged financial irregularities at AIIMS Rishikesh, with accusations involving the procurement of sweeping machines, drugs and vessel sealing equipment. The investigations suggest huge losses to public funds, with complaints of tender manipulation and non-functional medical supplies.
Sources say that one case under investigation pertains to the Coronary Care Unit (CCU) at AIIMS, where defects were discovered in equipment procurement. The CBI conducted a joint surprise check in March this year, focusing on missing files, substandard material and items that were never made operational. The agency alleges that in several instances, equipment was purchased despite being neither delivered nor entered in stock registers, casting doubt on the integrity of procurement processes.
Former AIIMS officials are named in these cases. Among them is Dr Ravi Kant, ex-director, along with other senior officers and store staff. The FIR filed by the CBI accuses them of conspiring with private firms to favour suppliers, concealing critical documents and awarding tenders to ineligible bidders — including one for advanced vessel sealing systems which remained unused for years.
Investigators claim that some devices worth crores of rupees were either missing or remained non-functional despite installation claims. In one instance, materials such as imported wall panels, ceiling tiles and multipara monitors were entered in register logs, but checks revealed their absence or nonuse. In another, vessel sealing units were purchased at inflated prices yet went unused for three years.
The probe is also examining anomalies in drug procurement and medical store tenders. Reports suggest that sweeping machine contracts and medicine orders have been awarded to firms that lacked eligibility or failed to meet technical standards. Some purchases were made without proper record or stock entry, raising serious questions about accountability.
The AIIMS assured cooperation with the investigation. Hospital authorities said they are offering full access to records, and pledged that whatever findings emerge, appropriate administrative action will follow. They noted that the institution had already experienced reputational damage owing to past allegations, and stressed the importance of restoring public trust.
Health sector observers regard the new cases as a test of institutional accountability. AIIMS Rishikesh was established to provide advanced healthcare to the region, reducing patient load on metropolitan hospitals. But repeated scandals may erode confidence in its stated mission. Some analysts also warn that unless the procurement regulations, audit oversight and contract transparency improve, such irregularities may recur.
Journalists and whistleblower networks have welcomed the probe, noting that medical institutions require the highest ethical standards. They have urged swift completion of the investigations, public disclosure of findings and stricter safeguards across AIIMS campuses.
With multiple FIRs registered, forensic audits underway and senior bureaucrats under scrutiny, this CBI action marks a turning point in accountability for medical institutions in the region. The outcome of these investigations will likely influence administrative reforms, procurement protocols and institutional governance in public health.
