ACB Raids at NIMS...Old Allegations Come Back Into Focus

Frequent Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) action against officials associated with Nizam’s Institute of Medical Sciences (NIMS) has once again brought allegations of irregularities at the institution into focus. The latest development came after the ACB registered a disproportionate-assets case against NIMS Additional Medical Superintendent Dr N. Lakshmi Bhasker and conducted searches at his residence and other connected locations. The agency said assets worth more than Rs 6.13 crore were identified during the searches.

NIMS has faced ACB scrutiny in the past as well, particularly over alleged irregularities in the procurement of medical equipment. In 2015, the ACB raided the residences of former NIMS director Dr A. Dharma Rakshak and other officials over alleged violations of tender norms in equipment purchases. A subsequent chargesheet alleged irregularities in the purchase of operation theatre tables, lights and ventilators, causing financial loss to the institution.