Whistleblower-Turned-Accused Akhtar Ali Attempts Surrender in RG Kar Corruption Case
In a dramatic turn of events, Akhtar Ali, the former deputy superintendent of Kolkata's RG Kar Medical College and Hospital, arrived at the special CBI court in Alipore on Saturday, February 7, 2026, to surrender in connection with a financial irregularities case. However, his efforts were thwarted as he could not complete the process due to the absence of the CBI counsel and inability to submit required documents.
Key Whistleblower Named in Supplementary Chargesheet
Ali, who was the key whistleblower in the institution's multi-crore financial irregularities case, has been named in a supplementary chargesheet submitted by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) in December 2025. According to the chargesheet, Ali, designated as A-7, was allegedly grossly involved in illegal procurement processes at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital, even before the tenure of the then-principal Dr. Sandip Ghosh.
Speaking to the media outside the court, Ali expressed his frustration, stating, "I am out in the open, not hiding. I do not know why the sections given to me are the same as those given to Sandip Ghosh. I am in the dark. I cannot say much, but I feel I am in a trap. I was the complainant. As many times as they have called me, I have gone and recorded my statement, and based on that they arrested Ghosh and others."
Health Issues and Legal Proceedings
Ali revealed that he had taken leave from the hospital where he had been admitted for acute back pain in order to surrender. Sources close to him confirmed his health struggles, which have complicated his legal situation. He left the court after waiting for some time, unable to proceed with the surrender.
He further added, "The ED has also given chargesheet, but my name is not there. I will just say it is my bad luck. I have no link with any corruption at RG Kar. I will come to court again on Monday."
Background of the Case and Arrest Warrant
The state-run RG Kar Medical College and Hospital came under intense scrutiny in August 2024 following the rape and murder of a trainee doctor on duty. Ali was the first to level corruption charges against Dr. Sandip Ghosh, but he has since found himself implicated in the same scandal.
On Friday, February 6, 2026, the Alipore Special CBI Court issued a non-bailable arrest warrant against Ali for failing to appear in a hearing. This came after the Calcutta High Court rejected his anticipatory bail plea earlier in the week.
Timeline of Events and Transfers
- 2023: Ali, then deputy superintendent at RG Kar, submitted a written complaint to the State Vigilance Commission alleging financial misconduct by Ghosh.
- Post-Complaint: Ali was transferred to Murshidabad Medical College and Hospital as deputy superintendent (non-medical).
- April 2025: He was transferred again to Kaliyaganj Hospital in Uttar Dinajpur as deputy superintendent.
- November 2025: Ali was suspended based on the Calcutta High Court's orders and the CBI's investigation findings.
The health department's notification explained that the suspension was due to Ali's alleged involvement in exerting undue influence over equipment purchases while serving as assistant superintendent and later deputy superintendent at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital.
Ongoing Legal Battle and Future Steps
Ali's case highlights the complexities and challenges faced by whistleblowers in corruption scandals. His claim of entrapment and lack of connection to the corruption adds a layer of controversy to the ongoing investigation. With his planned return to court on Monday, the legal proceedings are set to continue, drawing significant attention from the media and public alike.
The RG Kar financial irregularities scam remains a high-profile case in Kolkata, reflecting broader issues of governance and accountability in state-run institutions. As the story unfolds, further developments are expected to shed light on the truth behind the allegations and counter-allegations.
