CBI files nine chargesheets against 12 accused in connection with alleged irregularities in implementation of NRHM funds

Jalandhar, March 4, 2013: The Central Bureau of Investigation has filed nine more charge sheets in the court of Special Judge, CBI cases, Ghaziabad(UP) U/s 120 B r/w 409, 420, 467, 468, 471 of IPC and 13(2) r/w 13(1)(d) of PC Act, 1988 against 12 accused persons i.e. two then CMOs, Varanasi; the then DPO, Varanasi; the then ACMO(Retd.), Varanasi; the then ACMO cum RCH Programme Officer, Varanasi; the then ACMO(Store) ; the then DAO, O/o CMO, Varanasi; then UDC, O/o CMO, Lucknow; two representatives of Lucknow based private firms and two Proprietors of Varanasi based private firms for causing financial loss of about Rs. 50 lakh to the government while utilising NRHM funds in the matter of fraudulent purchase of medicines at exorbitant rates.

Acase was registered on February 23, 2012 on the findings of a preliminary enquiry registered in pursuance of order dated November 19, 2011 of Allahabad High Court on a number of Writ Petitions directing CBI to ascertain irregularities in the implementation of National Rural Health Mission(NRHM) funds in the State of Uttar Pradesh. It was alleged that the CMOs of 4 districts namely Varanasi, Ghazipur, Chandauli and Jaunpur had awarded the work for the supply of medicines to private suppliers.

One chargesheet had earlier filed on December 28, 2012 against the then Superintendent of Hospital, Varanasi; the then CMO; the then ACMO(Store); then RCH Programme Officer, Varanasi and Proprietor of Varanasi based private firm U/s120 B r/w 409, 420, 467, 468, 471 of IPC and 13(2) r/w 13(1)(d) of PC Act, 1988.

The public is reminded that the above findings are based on the investigation done by CBI and evidence collected by it. Under the Indian Law, the accused are presumed to be innocent till their guilt is finally established after a fair trial.