The Central Bureau of Investigation has received West Bengal government’s approval to prosecute Sandip Ghosh, former principal of RG Kar Medical College, for financial irregularities. The Calcutta High Court instructed a special court to expedite the trial process. Alongside, the Enforcement Directorate is investigating connected financial misconduct. The case underscores scrutiny of public institutions.
Kolkata: The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) informed the Calcutta High Court on Tuesday (Jan 28th) that it had received sanction from the West Bengal government to prosecute Sandip Ghosh, the former principal of RG Kar Medical College and Hospital, in connection with a case involving alleged financial irregularities. Justice Tirthankar Ghosh, who was hearing the matter, directed the special court handling the case to make every effort to frame charges within one week of the next hearing.
The CBI had been investigating the alleged financial misconduct at the state-run hospital in Kolkata during Ghosh’s tenure. The court’s directive to the special court also included instructions to ensure that the trial proceeds without delay, taking into account the list of witnesses and setting a schedule that would expedite the process to its logical conclusion as quickly as possible.
During the hearing, CBI counsel updated the court, informing that the central agency had now received the necessary authorization from the state government to proceed with prosecuting Ghosh and another former official in the case. The CBI’s report, which was submitted to the court, detailed the progress made in the investigation of the alleged irregularities.
This case dates back to the complaint filed by petitioner Akhtar Ali, a former official at RG Kar Hospital, who had sought a CBI investigation into the financial irregularities that occurred during Ghosh’s tenure. The Calcutta High Court had granted the request, and the order was subsequently upheld by the Supreme Court. In connection with the case, the CBI arrested Sandip Ghosh, who is currently in judicial remand.
The CBI’s progress report also revealed that a chargesheet was filed in the case on November 29, 2024. The court ordered that steps be taken to begin the trial and determine whether the evidence collected by the CBI is sufficient to frame charges against the accused. Justice Ghosh emphasized the importance of advancing the case, ensuring that all necessary procedures are followed for a swift resolution.
Additionally, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) is conducting a parallel investigation into the alleged money trail linked to the case. The ED has filed an Enforcement Case Information Report (ECIR), which is similar to a police FIR. The ED’s counsel informed the court that it has conducted 22 searches and is actively tracing the financial transactions tied to the accused individuals.
The case involving Sandip Ghosh highlights the ongoing scrutiny of financial irregularities within public institutions. The CBI and ED are working diligently to uncover the full extent of the alleged misconduct, and the courts are taking measures to ensure that justice is served as quickly as possible.
With the sanction for prosecution in place, the CBI is now focusing on advancing the case through the judicial process. The next steps will include further hearings and the framing of charges, as the investigation continues to unfold.
As the trial proceeds, the court’s aim to expedite the process reflects the urgency with which the authorities are treating the case, ensuring that accountability is enforced for the alleged wrongdoing at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital.
FOLLOW US ON YOUTUBE FOR MORE LEGAL UPDATES