On July 31, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) launched extensive raids targeting Himachal Pradesh Congress MLA R S Bali, several private hospitals, and their promoters. The operation is part of a money laundering probe linked to alleged fraud involving the Ayushman Bharat scheme.
Locations Targeted in the Raids: Himachal Pradesh
The ED is conducting searches at 19 locations across Delhi, Chandigarh, Punjab, and numerous districts in Himachal Pradesh, including Kangra, Una, Shimla, Mandi, and Kullu. The investigation focuses on the fabrication of fake Ayushman Bharat AB-PMJAY ID cards and the scheme’s misuse by various facilities, notably Fortis Hospital and Bankey Bihari Hospital.
Key Individuals and Facilities Under Scrutiny: Himachal Pradesh
The premises of Congress MLA R S Bali, Fortis Hospital in Kangra (promoted by Bali’s company Himachal Healthcare Pvt. Ltd.), Balaji Hospital in Kangra, and its promoter Rajesh Sharma are under inspection. Furthermore, reports indicate that many medical bills were generated using fake cards, causing significant financial losses to the exchequer and the public.
Political Connections and Allegations:Himachal Pradesh
Officials revealed that Rajesh Sharma has a close relationship with Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu. While, Sharma stepped aside from the recent Dehra assembly by-election, allowing Sukhu’s wife, Kamlesh Thakur, to run and win the bypoll. The money laundering case originates from a January 2023 FIR filed by the state vigilance and anti-corruption bureau, involving Kiran Soni, Shri Banke Bihari Hospital in Una, and others accused of creating fake AB-PMJAY cards. Meanwhile, the ED alleges that numerous medical bills were issued using fake cards, resulting in substantial financial losses. This fraudulent activity has severely impacted both the government treasury and the public.
Ongoing Search Operations
The ED continues its search operations at 19 locations, including Delhi and Punjab, in connection with the Ayushman Bharat card fraud. Moreover, the raids have brought to light the involvement of two prominent Congress leaders in Himachal Pradesh. Thereafter, the ED is actively searching the residences of Congress MLA R S Bali and the hospital of Rajesh Sharma, who is seeking a ticket from Dehra.
Conclusion
The ED’s major action against the creation of fake Ayushman Bharat ID cards marks a significant step in tackling corruption and financial fraud. However, the ongoing investigation aims to uncover the full extent of the scheme’s violations and hold those responsible accountable.
