Raids across six states; assessors accused of manipulating inspection reports for recognition of medical institutions
New Delhi:
In a major anti-corruption operation, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has arrested six individuals—including three doctors—for allegedly accepting bribes in exchange for favourable inspection reports to medical colleges. The crackdown centers around Shri Rawatpura Sarkar Institute of Medical Sciences & Research in Nava Raipur, Chhattisgarh.
According to a CBI statement, a case has been registered against the institute’s office-bearers, inspecting doctors, and intermediaries for manipulating the mandatory inspection process conducted for official recognition of the medical college.
Bribe Delivered in Bengaluru, Six Arrested
The CBI acted upon specific intelligence that college officials were influencing designated assessors to produce fraudulent positive inspection reports in return for bribes. A trap was laid, and six people were apprehended during the exchange of ₹55 lakh in Bengaluru. The arrested individuals are expected to be presented before competent courts in their respective jurisdictions.
Widespread Search Operations Underway
As part of the ongoing probe, the CBI has launched extensive searches at over 40 locations across Karnataka, Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh, Uttar Pradesh, Delhi, and Madhya Pradesh, targeting individuals and institutions believed to be connected to the bribery network.
Doctors Under Scanner for Inspection Manipulation
According to investigators, the accused used various illegal means to influence the inspection process. Designated assessors—doctors tasked with verifying the quality and infrastructure of medical institutions—allegedly accepted bribes to provide glowing reports regardless of actual compliance with standards.
Part of a Wider Pattern of Medical Education Corruption
This case adds to a growing list of corruption allegations linked to inspections and recognitions of medical colleges. We earlier reported a similar case in which an NMC assessor was arrested for accepting a ₹10 lakh bribe in exchange for a favourable report for a private Karnataka medical college.
Ongoing Investigation and Broader Implications
The CBI has reiterated its commitment to uncovering the full extent of the network and has not ruled out further arrests. The agency has also hinted that several other medical institutions and intermediaries may soon come under the scanner.
Call for Reform and Accountability
This incident further underscores the urgent need for increased transparency and accountability in India’s medical education system. Regulatory bodies like the National Medical Commission (NMC) have reaffirmed a zero-tolerance policy toward corruption and malpractice in the assessment process, and more stringent oversight is expected in the coming months.
