Contractual doctor caught by ACB during trap operation inside hospital premises
In a shocking case of alleged corruption in public healthcare, a contractual orthopaedic surgeon posted at Anand General Hospital was arrested by the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) for allegedly demanding and accepting a bribe to perform a surgery that was meant to be conducted free of cost.
According to media reports, the arrest was made after a local resident lodged a complaint at the Anand ACB police station, alleging that the doctor demanded money to carry out a finger surgery on his friend.
Doctor allegedly demanded Rs 6,500 for surgery
As per investigators, the orthopaedic surgeon initially demanded Rs 6,500 to perform the procedure. Following negotiations, the amount was allegedly reduced to Rs 4,000.
The complainant reportedly paid Rs 1,000 in advance, while the doctor allegedly instructed him to hand over the remaining Rs 3,000 after completion of the surgery.
However, unwilling to pay the remaining amount, the complainant approached anti-corruption authorities and informed them about the alleged demand for illegal gratification.
ACB conducts trap operation inside hospital
Acting on the complaint, officials from the Anti-Corruption Bureau organised a trap operation inside the hospital premises.
According to police officials, the complainant met the accused doctor outside the operation theatre lobby located on the first floor of the hospital, where discussions regarding the pending payment allegedly took place.
During the operation, the doctor allegedly accepted the marked Rs 3,000 from the complainant. ACB officials immediately intervened, recovered the tainted cash, and arrested the accused doctor on the spot.
Case registered under anti-corruption laws
Speaking to the media, investigators said the accused has been booked under anti-corruption provisions for allegedly abusing his official position and accepting illegal gratification.
Officials stated that the doctor’s actions amounted to criminal misconduct by a public servant. Further investigation into the matter is currently underway.
Rising concerns over corruption in public healthcare
The incident has once again raised serious concerns regarding corruption and unethical practices within government healthcare institutions, where patients are expected to receive affordable or free medical treatment.
Recently, the Anti-Corruption Bureau in Andhra Pradesh also arrested a Drug Inspector along with his private aide for allegedly accepting a Rs 20,000 bribe to process a drug licence application for a medical store.
