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Delhi Health Case Takes New Turn After Arrest of Former DGHS Official. (Image Internet)
New Delhi: The Delhi government's Anti-Corruption Branch (ACB) has arrested former Director General of Health Services (DGHS) Dr Vatsala Aggarwal in connection with an alleged multi-crore procurement scam involving medicines, medical equipment and surgical supplies.
The arrest comes shortly after the agency detained Dr Vijay Kumar Ranga, another official linked to the case. A Delhi court later sent Ranga to four days of police custody.
According to investigators, the case involves alleged financial irregularities in procurement contracts handled by the Central Procurement Agency (CPA), which operates under the DGHS.
The probe began after the Directorate of Vigilance raised concerns over suspicious transactions and possible violations in procurement procedures.
The ACB has alleged that several medical items, including portable X-ray machines, C-arm radiology equipment, anaesthesia workstations, bed linen, medicines and surgical materials, were purchased at inflated rates.
Investigators are examining whether tender processes were manipulated to benefit selected suppliers. Officials suspect that customised specifications may have restricted competition and caused losses to public funds.
A corruption case was registered on June 2 under the Prevention of Corruption Act and criminal conspiracy provisions. Authorities are reviewing tender documents, procurement records and related files.
Dr Aggarwal was removed from the DGHS position on May 21 and later transferred to Guru Teg Bahadur Hospital before being suspended to allow disciplinary proceedings.
The Delhi government has also suspended five pharmacists and two CPA officials following an internal inquiry that reportedly found irregularities in medicine procurement, storage and management.
Chief Minister Rekha Gupta said the administration follows a zero-tolerance policy towards corruption and negligence, assuring strict action if wrongdoing is established.
The ACB said the investigation is ongoing and officials are examining the possible involvement of other government officers and private suppliers.
