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Bengaluru: An FIR has been registered against government officials and private companies due to alleged irregularities in Karnataka during the Corona epidemic. The fraud is alleged to have caused a huge loss of Rs 167 crore to the state exchequer. The case pertains to illegal purchase and supply of PPE Kit and N95 masks.
Case of illegal purchase of PPE kits and N95 masks
The case pertains to illegal procurement of personal protective equipment (PPE) kits and N95 masks required for medical personnel. The complaint has been lodged by Dr. M. Vishnuprasad, Chief Accounts Officer of the Directorate of Medical Education (DME). In this, allegations have been made against several prominent personalities including the former director of DME and the management of some private companies.
No name of any politician
Although the police have started investigation, the name of any political person or high-ranking official has not clearly emerged. Nevertheless, the possibility of involvement of politicians in this scam is being raised.
Corruption was going on during Corona crisis
According to the complaint, at the height of the Corona pandemic in 2020, the Medical Education Department did not follow legal procedures in purchasing essential supplies.
- On August 18, 2020, the state government had permitted the procurement of 2.59 lakh N95 masks and an equal number of PPE kits for 17 government colleges and one super-speciality hospital.
- Corruption and irregularities came to light in this process.
Hospitals did not get full supplies
Despite government orders, irregularities occurred at several levels in the procurement process.
- A tender process was adopted for the supply of PPE kits, but the designated hospitals never received the entire supply.
- Due to this glitch, hospitals faced a severe shortage of essential resources during the pandemic.
Accusations against Mumbai company
The FIR states that a Mumbai-based company played a central role in the fraud.
Allegations against the company:
- Rigging in the bidding process.
- Unnecessary increase in prices.
- Carrying out unethical activities.
Some officials are accused of facilitating these illegal activities. The investigation has also indicated that political representatives of the former government may have played a role in this fraud.
Investigation continues, strict action expected
The police are investigating this matter in depth. Strict action is expected against those found guilty. The case has exposed negligence and corruption in health supplies during the pandemic.
