Kolkata: The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has launched a comprehensive probe into allegations of financial mismanagement and improper disposal of biomedical waste at RG Kar Hospital. The investigation, which was detailed in a submission to the special CBI court on Tuesday, has uncovered significant concerns regarding the diversion of academic funds and potential lapses in waste management practices.
The inquiry has revealed allegations of substantial financial discrepancies associated with the hospital’s counselling sessions for undergraduate and postgraduate admissions. According to preliminary findings, RG Kar Hospital purportedly expended approximately ₹14 lakh on various items, including CCTV cameras, sound systems, tables, chairs, and computer peripherals. Notably, daily expenses for data backup on pen drives ranged from ₹4,000 to ₹12,000. Additionally, the hospital’s expenditures on hybrid Wi-Fi connections, printer toners, and other accessories appear unusually high.
Compounding these financial concerns are allegations regarding the disposal of biomedical waste. The CBI’s investigation has uncovered discrepancies related to contracts issued to waste management firms that purportedly lack operational biomedical waste treatment facilities within Bengal. Documents obtained during the probe suggest that hazardous waste was improperly handled, with reports indicating that waste was found in open dump sites at Barrackpore and Budge Budge municipalities. These waste management firms are alleged to have dumped the hazardous materials in plastic bags and left them exposed at these sites, raising serious environmental and health concerns. The CBI’s investigation into RG Kar Hospital is expected to uncover further irregularities as the probe progresses. This scrutiny highlights broader issues of financial oversight and environmental compliance within healthcare institutions, underscoring the need for stringent regulatory enforcement and transparency.
