Chargesheet Filed Against Himachal’s Ex-Deputy Drug Controller for Illegal Gratification?
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Synopsis
The Enforcement Directorate files a significant chargesheet against Himachal Pradesh's former Deputy Drug Controller for alleged illegal gratification and money laundering. This case raises critical questions about corruption in drug licensing and the enforcement of anti-corruption laws in India.
Key Takeaways
- Charges filed against Kapil Dhiman for illegal gratification.
- Investigation initiated by the ED following an FIR from the State Vigilance Bureau.
- Proceeds of Crime were allegedly channeled through complex transactions.
- Convictions include family members involved in the case.
- Significant implications for regulatory integrity in the pharmaceutical sector.
Shimla, Dec 20 (NationPress) The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has submitted a chargesheet against a former Deputy Drug Controller and Drug Licensing Authority in the Special Court (PMLA) located in Shimla. This action pertains to a case involving illegal gratification related to the issuance and renewal of drug manufacturing licenses in Himachal Pradesh, as reported by an official on Saturday.
The ED's Prosecution Complaint (PC) was filed against ex-Deputy Drug Controller Kapil Dhiman and others, under the provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), 2002.
Previously, during the investigation under PMLA, the ED had provisionally attached both movable and immovable assets belonging to Kapil Dhiman and his family, amounting to approximately Rs 2.07 crore, through a provisional attachment order dated January 12, 2022.
The inquiry was initiated based on an FIR lodged by the State Vigilance and Anti-Corruption Bureau (SV&ACB) in Solan, Himachal Pradesh. This FIR included various sections of the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988, and the IPC, 1860, against Kapil Dhiman, who was the then Deputy Drug Controller/Drug Licensing Authority in Solan.
The FIR accused him of receiving illegal payments for the issuance and renewal of drug manufacturing licenses while amassing assets disproportionate to known sources of income.
Following the investigation, the ACB officials filed a chargesheet against Dhiman and others on March 9, 2018, before the Special Judge in Solan.
During the trial of the scheduled offense, the Special Judge delivered a verdict on December 11, 2024, convicting Kapil Dhiman, Laxman Singh Dhiman (his father), and Puneet Dhiman (his nephew) for their involvement in the crime.
The ED's investigation uncovered that Kapil Dhiman, by misusing his official capacity, generated Proceeds of Crime (POC) from pharmaceutical companies in his jurisdiction. He then layered and disguised these proceeds by investing in movable and immovable properties under his name and that of family members, including his father and nephew.
The illicit funds were channeled through benami transactions, unsecured loans without formal agreements, cash transactions, and intricate banking arrangements, as stated by the ED.
Point of View
This case illustrates the persistent challenge of corruption within regulatory bodies. Upholding integrity in public service is crucial for maintaining trust in the healthcare system. The actions taken by the ED underscore the importance of vigilance and accountability in governance. NationPress remains committed to reporting on such significant issues that affect the public interest.
NationPress
20/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the basis for the charges against Kapil Dhiman?
The charges are based on allegations of illegal gratification for issuing and renewing drug manufacturing licenses, as well as accumulation of assets disproportionate to known sources of income.
What actions has the ED taken against Dhiman?
The ED has filed a chargesheet and provisionally attached properties worth Rs 2.07 crore belonging to Dhiman and his family members.
What legal framework is being applied in this case?
The case is being prosecuted under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), 2002, as well as various sections of the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988.
What was the outcome of the trial so far?
The trial resulted in a conviction of Kapil Dhiman and two family members on December 11, 2024.
How did the investigation begin?
The investigation began after the State Vigilance and Anti-Corruption Bureau registered an FIR against Dhiman under various corruption-related charges.
