Lucknow: King George’s Medical University (KGMU) has submitted its investigation report to the Uttar Pradesh Government regarding the alleged Rs 2.5 crore medicine procurement scam in its urology department and complaints that ophthalmology patients were being directed to purchase medicines and lenses from select private medical stores.
The report was submitted following directions from the Uttar Pradesh Government, which sought a detailed explanation on both allegations. Acting on the instructions of Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak, Additional Chief Secretary (Medical Education) Amit Kumar Ghosh had directed KGMU to furnish a comprehensive report. A government-level committee comprising senior medical education officials was subsequently formed to examine the matter.
Probe Focuses on Alleged Irregularities in Asadhya Yojana
The investigation into the urology department centered on alleged irregularities in the procurement and distribution of medicines under the Asadhya Yojana, a government-funded scheme that provides free treatment to economically weaker patients suffering from critical illnesses.
According to allegations, expensive cancer medicines were allegedly procured and issued in the names of fictitious patients, leading to suspected financial irregularities amounting to nearly Rs 2.5 crore. Investigators scrutinized procurement records, medicine distribution logs, and the role of officials and medical staff involved in implementing the scheme.
Earlier, KGMU had suspended a pharmacist posted at the local purchase counter of the urology department and initiated criminal proceedings against him after an inquiry revealed alleged irregularities in medicine procurement under the scheme.
Ophthalmology Department Under Scanner
The second inquiry examined allegations that patients in KGMU’s ophthalmology department were being advised to purchase lenses and medicines from private medical stores outside the hospital despite the availability of such supplies within the institution.
As part of the investigation, officials reviewed prescriptions, surgical records, procurement details, and departmental procedures to determine whether patients were being unnecessarily referred to external vendors.
Five-Member Committee Examined Documents, Statements
A five-member committee constituted by KGMU recorded statements from officials and staff members and examined relevant documents before preparing its findings. Sources indicated that the university submitted a report spanning approximately three pages, along with detailed responses to 20 queries raised by the state government.
Government to Review Findings
With the report now submitted, the Uttar Pradesh Government is expected to review the findings and determine whether disciplinary or further legal action is warranted against those found responsible.
The outcome of the investigation is likely to play a significant role in ensuring transparency and accountability in the implementation of government-funded healthcare schemes and hospital procurement systems.
