Will the Maharashtra Government Reveal the Inquiry Report on Cancer Van Purchases Before the Monsoon Session Ends?
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Synopsis
The Maharashtra government's investigation into the procurement of cancer diagnostic vans raises questions about transparency and integrity in public health. As allegations of inflated prices and irregularities surface, the Assembly Speaker has mandated that the inquiry report be submitted before the Monsoon session concludes, keeping public health concerns at the forefront.
Key Takeaways
- The Maharashtra government is investigating allegations of corruption in the procurement of cancer diagnostic vans.
- Speaker Rahul Narvekar has mandated a report submission before the Monsoon session ends.
- Opposition leaders claim vans were purchased at inflated prices.
- The procurement process was allegedly manipulated.
- Transparency and accountability in public health spending are essential.
Mumbai, July 3 (NationPress) The Maharashtra government is currently investigating the acquisition of vans utilized by the Public Health Department for cancer diagnostics, as stated by Minister of State for Public Health, Meghana Sakore Bordiar, in the Assembly on Thursday. Following this declaration, the Speaker instructed that the findings be presented in the Assembly before the conclusion of the Monsoon session.
Minister Bordiar made this announcement after the Opposition in the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly alleged significant improprieties in the procurement of the vans meant for cancer diagnosis.
She clarified that the vans were acquired through a transparent tendering process; however, due to complaints from public representatives, the department is undertaking an inquiry.
During question hour, Opposition legislators Bhaskar Jadhav from Shiv Sena (UBT) and Vijay Wadettiwar from Congress asserted that the vans were procured at inflated prices and that the entire tendering process was manipulated. They called for stringent action against those responsible.
Wadettiwar insisted that the inquiry and its findings should be submitted to the state Assembly by the end of the session.
In response to Wadettiwar’s request, Assembly Speaker Rahul Narvekar mandated the completion of the inquiry before the session's end and the subsequent presentation of the report in the House.
Wadettiwar highlighted that the Public Health Department has acquired eight cancer diagnostic vans, but these were bought at prices that are double or triple the expected cost. He demanded a thorough investigation into potential fraud, urging that the report be delivered to the Assembly prior to the session's conclusion.
“The government has procured eight cancer diagnostic vans, with a reasonable price for a single van not exceeding Rs 40 lakh. The equipment within these vans should not surpass Rs 12 lakh. Nevertheless, these vehicles were purchased at significantly higher rates. Given that these vans are essential for diagnosing a life-threatening disease like cancer, and some equipment has reportedly malfunctioned, an investigation into possible corruption is underway. The report is still pending. What is truly happening?” he questioned.
Shiv Sena (UBT) asserted that these vans could have been procured for Rs 45 lakh instead of the Rs 90 lakh spent in this instance. Jadhav inquired why the procurement occurred at such inflated prices, alleging irregularities throughout the entire process that warrant scrutiny.
MoS Bordikar informed the Assembly that the eight cancer diagnostic vans were purchased on a turnkey basis via the GeM portal. The procurement was executed through a competitive tender process, with bids received being below 0.94 percent of the estimated price. These vans are equipped with 44 medical instruments, furnishings, and customizations. The purchase adhered to all stipulated government regulations.
Point of View
It is crucial to approach this situation with a commitment to integrity and transparency. The ongoing inquiry into the procurement of cancer diagnostic vans reflects the vital importance of accountability in public health spending. It is essential for the Maharashtra government to address these allegations seriously, ensuring that public trust is upheld and that healthcare remains accessible and trustworthy for all citizens.
NationPress
04/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the inquiry into the cancer diagnostic vans?
The inquiry was initiated following allegations from the Opposition regarding inflated prices and irregularities in the procurement process.
Who is overseeing the inquiry?
The inquiry is being overseen by the Maharashtra government, specifically through the Public Health Department.
What has the Assembly Speaker mandated?
The Assembly Speaker has directed that the inquiry report be presented in the House before the end of the Monsoon session.
How many vans were procured and at what price?
Eight cancer diagnostic vans were purchased, with allegations suggesting they were acquired at double or triple the expected price.
What is the significance of this inquiry?
This inquiry is crucial to ensure accountability in public health spending and to maintain public trust in the government's procurement processes.
