In a significant crackdown on corruption, the Bharatpur police have suspended seven of its personnel after they were found guilty of committing fraud under the Rajasthan Government Health Scheme (RGHS). The action was taken by Superintendent of Police Digant Anand following a departmental probe that exposed a scam involving collusion with medical store operators.
The Modus Operandi of the Scam
The investigation revealed that the accused police personnel misused their RGHS cards in several fraudulent ways. Instead of purchasing prescribed medicines from empanelled stores, they allegedly bought ration items and other daily goods. In numerous transactions, while the prescription was for medicines worth around Rs 1,500, goods worth only Rs 1,200–1,300 were supplied. This allowed the medical store owners to pocket an illegal gain of up to Rs 300 per transaction.
In more brazen instances, some personnel shared their RGHS card numbers directly with store owners. These operators then generated fake bills for medical treatment that never occurred and withdrew cash. The probe also found that some staff used the health scheme to get their relatives treated, which is a violation of the rules.
Who Are the Accused?
The suspended personnel include four women constables. The individuals named in the order are constables Anju Kumari, Satyawati, Yogesh Kumari, Prahlad, Jitendra Singh, Mithlesh, and Manoj Kumar. SP Digant Anand stated that the Home Department's probe confirmed irregularities by these seven individuals. "They were found guilty of misusing the RGHS scheme and have been placed under suspension," he said.
Ongoing Investigation and Wider Scrutiny
The SP has entrusted a detailed investigation to Additional Superintendent of Police Ram Gopal. A preliminary departmental inquiry is already being conducted by an officer of the ASP rank. The scandal appears to have deeper roots, with more personnel currently under scrutiny. "Records of all suspected officers and employees are being examined. Strict action will be taken against anyone found involved, including medical store operators," warned SP Anand.
This fraud was not uncovered recently. Bharatpur Chief Medical and Health Officer (CMHO) Dr Gaurav Kapoor disclosed that the scam was first probed approximately a year ago on the directions of the district collector. A team of doctors conducted that inquiry and submitted a list of guilty persons to the state government. "Action is now being taken by the concerned departments against those found guilty," Dr Kapoor added.
The case highlights a systemic issue where a welfare scheme meant for the health of government employees and their families was exploited for personal gain. The suspension of the seven personnel marks the first step in what authorities promise will be a thorough clean-up.
