Hamar Lab scam: ACB adds 4 accused, flags 550 cr loss

Raipur: The CGMSC scam case has seen further escalation as the ACB filed a supplementary chargesheet in the Chhattisgarh Medical Services Corporation (CGMSC) scam, naming four more accused in alleged irregularities linked to the state's ‘Hamar Lab' scheme, under which diagnostic services were to be provided in government hospitals. The agency told the court that procurement of medical equipment, reagents, and consumables for district hospitals, FRUs, CHCs, primary health centres, and sub-health centres was manipulated through a cartel-like arrangement. Investigators alleged that three firms coordinated their bids, submitted similar product details, pack sizes and rates, and used forged documents to establish eligibility and reduce competition in the tender process. The probe further found that even where products were not clearly specified in the tender documents, the firms described them in an identical pattern. According to the ACB, the state exchequer suffered an estimated loss of around Rs 550 crore as reagents and consumables were supplied at rates up to three times higher than the actual MRP. With the supplementary filing, chargesheets have now been presented against 10 accused in the case so far. The bureau said investigation into all aspects of the alleged misuse of public funds under the public-interest ‘Hamar Lab' scheme is continuing, and further action may follow based on evidence. The case gained traction after former home minister Nankiram Kanwar complained in December 2024 to the PMO, Union home ministry, CBI, and ED over the alleged scam in CGMSC, following which the Economic Offences Wing was directed to probe the matter. The broader allegations include preferential tender conditions and the rapid award of orders worth about Rs 750 crore to a firm within 27 days, despite no immediate requirement for the kits and equipment.