Kolhapur District Surgeons Suspended in 'Red Diary' Corruption Scandal
In a significant development in Maharashtra's healthcare sector, the Kolhapur district surgeon Dr Prashant Wadikar and his predecessor Dr Supriya Deshmukh have been suspended following a thorough investigation into the notorious "red diary" corruption case at Chhatrapati Pramila Raje (CPR) Hospital. The suspension orders were issued late on Friday night by Neil Kumeria, the executive officer of the public health department, after a three-member inquiry committee found both doctors guilty of serious financial irregularities.
The Sting Operation That Uncovered Corruption
The scandal first came to light on December 8, 2025, when Shiv Sena (UBT) office-bearers conducted a sting operation and staged protests against alleged financial transactions occurring within the surgeon's office to approve medical bills. During their investigation, activists discovered a red-colored diary in a drawer located on the first floor of the civil surgeon's office.
Shiv Sena (UBT) deputy leader Sanjay Pawar revealed: "We found this red diary containing detailed records of bill amounts submitted and the charges extracted from applicants to get their files signed. The diary indicated that bills were cleared only after paying approximately 3% of the total bill amount as commission. With around 62 pages of similar transaction details, we demanded explanations for these recorded amounts, but the then district surgeon failed to provide satisfactory answers, creating substantial confusion."
Political Repercussions and Committee Investigation
The matter quickly escalated to the winter session of the Maharashtra state legislative assembly, drawing significant political attention. In response, health minister Prakash Abitkar appointed a specialized three-member inquiry committee to conduct a comprehensive investigation. The committee comprised Dr Dilip Mane (deputy director of health), Dr Sanjay Ranveer (deputy director of the malaria department), and Dr Dipak Varak (civil surgeon from Sangli).
This committee conducted an intensive 15-day inquiry into the financial transactions of the surgeon's office, meticulously examining files and records. Their investigation revealed that certain records were not maintained according to government rules and regulations. The committee determined that while ward attendants and a Class IV employee assisted in creating these irregular records, the ultimate responsibility rested squarely with both civil surgeons who held authority over the office operations.
Suspension Orders and Further Recommendations
Dr Dilip Mane confirmed the disciplinary action: "Orders regarding the suspension of both the current and former district surgeons were received late on Friday night. The investigation clearly established their accountability in this matter."
The inquiry committee's report has also recommended the transfer of two wardens involved in the case, with further decisions expected at the deputy director of health level. Additionally, decisions regarding another employee's involvement remain pending as the investigation continues to unfold.
This case highlights ongoing concerns about transparency and accountability in healthcare administration, particularly regarding financial practices within government medical facilities. The "red diary" scandal has exposed systematic corruption mechanisms that allegedly operated within the surgeon's office, raising questions about oversight mechanisms and financial controls in public health institutions.
