Kerala Health Minister seeks probe into Rs 46 lakh irregularities at MCH Thiruvananthapuram
Thiruvananthapuram: Kerala Health Minister K. Muraleedharan has sought an investigation into the alleged misappropriation of funds linked to the Hospital Development Society (HDS) at Government Medical College (GMC), Thiruvananthapuram, following findings of financial irregularities in an audit report.
The Minister has written to Home Minister Ramesh Chennithala requesting a detailed investigation based on the 2021 audit report of the Hospital Development Society, which flagged financial irregularities amounting to ₹46 lakh. Acting on the audit findings, the Medical Superintendent of the Government Medical College forwarded the report to the government for further action.
The audit reportedly found that revenue generated from the hospital's HMC laboratory, MRI and ultrasound scan units was entered into the ledger but was not deposited into the bank, indicating possible misappropriation of funds. The report also highlighted deficiencies in financial management and accounting practices.
Besides the alleged failure to deposit collected amount, the audit highlighted shortcomings in maintaining and scrutinising accounts, lack of clarity regarding investments, pending dues from debtors, and failure to deduct statutory taxes from payments made to annual maintenance contractors and security service providers.
Taking note of the audit findings, the Health Minister said the matter warranted a detailed investigation to establish the facts and identify those responsible for the alleged irregularities. He has requested that the case be handed over to an appropriate investigating agency and that legal action, including the registration of a criminal case if warranted, be initiated.
According to The Hindu, the Minister stated that the audit report pointed to serious financial irregularities and lapses in financial management, making it necessary to conduct a comprehensive investigation and initiate appropriate legal proceedings against those found responsible.
