Uttarakhand SIC orders CBI probe done into alleged irregularities in NRHM
6 Jan, 2014Ramesh Chandra Sharma had filed an application under the Right to Information (RTI) Act alleging serious irregularities in the distribution of medicines worth Rs 14.70 crores under the National Rural Health Mission programme. He had sought certain information in this regard and had to approach the Uttarakhand State Information Commission (SIC) on not getting any information. The SIC held that the issue involved a larger public interest and had directed an inquiry by senior officials of health department last year. In spite of the orders of the SIC, the investigation report of the state government into the alleged irregularity was not presented on last three dates. JS Pangtey, Director General (Health, Medical and Family Welfare) presented an interim report into alleged irregularities which suggests that the quantity of drugs procured was enhanced without any basis. He told the SIC that the health department officials were not cooperating in the investigations. During the hearing he conveyed to the SIC that due to non-cooperation of the state officials, he is unable to complete the inquiry. He informed that the Commission may order probe by an independent agency.
State Information Commissioner Anil Sharma took cognisance of the interim report and has directed a CBI inquiry into the matter. He ordered that the report of the health department should be forwarded to CBI in the sealed cover through Chief Secretary.