The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has escalated a financial corruption probe at Kolkata's RG Kar Medical College and Hospital, naming former deputy superintendent Akhtar Ali in a fresh charge sheet. This development marks a dramatic twist, as Ali was previously known for levelling corruption allegations against the hospital's former principal.
From Accuser to Accused: The Unfolding Scandal
According to agency sources, the CBI submitted an additional charge sheet in the case on Monday. Akhtar Ali's name features alongside another individual, Shashikant Chandak. This document supplements earlier charge sheets filed against former principal Sandip Ghosh, Biplab Singh, Suman Hazra, Afsar Ali Khan, and Ashish Pandey, all of whom were arrested during the investigation. Notably, while Ali has been formally charged, he has not been taken into custody as of now.
The situation represents a stark reversal for Akhtar Ali. Back in 2023, he had approached the state vigilance commission with complaints of financial misconduct by the then-principal, Sandip Ghosh. Following his whistleblowing act, Ali was transferred first to Murshidabad Medical College and Hospital and later to Kaliaganj Hospital in North Dinajpur.
Suspension and Allegations of Financial Impropriety
The health department's recent actions have shed more light on the allegations against Ali. After he attempted to resign from his position, the department not only rejected his resignation but proceeded to suspend him. A formal notice was issued detailing the grounds for this suspension.
The suspension is directly linked to the CBI investigation, which was ordered by the Kolkata High Court. The probe uncovered Ali's alleged involvement in corrupt practices related to hospital equipment procurement during his tenure as assistant superintendent. Investigators claim he used his official influence to favour specific companies in exchange for monetary benefits.
The financial trail appears substantial. Between 2020 and 2022, Ali's personal bank account allegedly received Rs 2,39,000, while his wife's account received an additional Rs 50,000, all linked to these dealings. Furthermore, he stands accused of misusing his position to secure air travel benefits for himself and his family.
Political Move Amidst Legal Troubles
In a significant post-suspension move, Akhtar Ali has joined a political party. This step adds another layer to the ongoing narrative, intertwining a public service corruption case with political affiliations. The health department's decisive action to suspend him, based on the CBI's findings, underscores the seriousness of the charges.
The case continues to develop, with the CBI's charge sheet now formally placing the former deputy superintendent at the centre of the very corruption scandal he once sought to expose.
