Bhilwara: A Jaipur-based doctor working as an investigator under the Ayushman Bharat scheme has been arrested for allegedly demanding and accepting a hefty bribe from a private hospital in Bhilwara to clear its pending bills.
Demand Linked to Ayushman Scheme Bills
According to media reports, the accused doctor allegedly demanded money from Siddhivinayak Hospital in return for approving bills submitted under the Chief Minister Ayushman Arogya Yojana. The doctor reportedly threatened the hospital with de-empanelment from the scheme if the demand was not met.
Initial Demand and Negotiation
Hospital authorities stated that the doctor initially demanded a higher amount. After negotiations, the bribe amount was allegedly settled at eleven lakh rupees, which the hospital was asked to pay to ensure continuation under the scheme.
Role of Insurance Agency Explained
The Anti-Corruption Bureau said the hospital provides treatment to beneficiaries under the state-run Ayushman Arogya Yojana and submits its bills to the National Insurance Company, the authorised agency of the state government, for reimbursement.
Irregularities Used as Pressure Tactic
During scrutiny, certain irregularities were reportedly flagged in the hospital’s bills. The doctor allegedly used these observations as leverage, warning the hospital of possible removal from the scheme unless money was paid to clear the bills.
ACB Lays Trap and Arrests Accused
After receiving a formal complaint, the Ajmer unit of the Anti-Corruption Bureau laid a trap. The incident took place when the doctor arrived to collect the bribe and was handed a mix of fake and genuine currency notes. He was arrested on the spot immediately after accepting the money.
Case Registered Under Corruption Law
Following the arrest, a case has been registered against the doctor under the Prevention of Corruption Act. The accused is currently being interrogated at the Anti-Corruption Bureau office, and further investigation is underway.
Hospital Alleges Month-Long Harassment
The hospital manager said the doctor had been threatening the management for nearly a month, repeatedly alleging fraud under the Ayushman Bharat scheme. Troubled by the pressure and threats, the hospital finally approached the Anti-Corruption Bureau, leading to the arrest.
