550 cr medical scam rocks CG, 3 arrested by anti-corruption bureau

Raipur: The Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) has arrested three persons in connection with the Chhattisgarh Medical Services Corporation (CGMSC) alleged scam involving the procurement of medical equipment and reagents. The arrests were made on Sunday under Sections 409 and 120-B of the IPC and provisions of the Prevention of Corruption Act. The fraudulent activity resulted in an estimated loss of Rs 550 crore to the state exchequer.The arrested individuals include Abhishek Kaushal, Rakesh Jain and Prince Jain.Investigations revealed that the accused manipulated the tender process for the ‘Hamar Lab' scheme, which provides free diagnostic services across district hospitals, Community Health Centres (CHCs), and Primary Health Centres (PHCs). Mokshit Corporation allegedly secured the tenders through pool tendering with the assistance of two other companies, which participated using forged documents.The probe found evidence of deliberate coordination and cartelisation to stifle competition. Only three firms were shortlisted for the financial bid stage. All firms submitted bids with identical patterns for products, pack sizes, and consumables. Even items not clearly specified in the tender documents were listed identically by the firms.The price quotes followed a fixed pattern, with Mokshit Corporation quoting the lowest rates, followed by the other two companies. This arrangement allegedly allowed Mokshit Corporation to supply reagents and consumables to CGMSC at rates up to three times higher than the Maximum Retail Price (MRP).The accused were produced before the Special Court (Prevention of Corruption Act) in Raipur on Monday. The court remanded them to police custody until Jan 27.Authorities are investigating all aspects of the alleged misappropriation of public funds under the Hamar Lab scheme. Officials stated that further legal action will be taken against all responsible individuals based on the evidence collected.