Kolkata, 16 December (H.S.) :

Trouble appears to be mounting for former deputy superintendent of RG Kar Medical College and Hospital, Akhtar Ali, in the financial corruption case linked to the institution. Akhtar Ali was scheduled to appear before the CBI special court in Alipore on Tuesday but failed to turn up.

His counsel informed the court that an application for anticipatory bail has been filed before the Calcutta High Court. Taking a stern view, the CBI special court directed that Akhtar Ali must appear before it, warning that a warrant would be issued if he fails to comply.

It is noteworthy that Akhtar Ali was the first to lodge a complaint at Tala police station alleging financial irregularities at RG Kar Hospital. He had levelled several serious allegations against former principal Sandip Ghosh. In 2023, Akhtar Ali had also submitted a written complaint to the state vigilance commission, detailing alleged corruption and administrative irregularities within the hospital.

The corruption case gained momentum following the rape and murder of a woman doctor at RG Kar Hospital, after which the probe widened. During the investigation, former principal Sandip Ghosh was arrested, and the CBI took over the case on the directions of the High Court.

However, as the investigation progressed, the CBI reportedly came across crucial documents and evidence implicating the complainant, Akhtar Ali, as well. Subsequently, his name was included in the CBI charge sheet and summons were issued to him. His failure to appear in court despite the summons prompted the court to issue a strict warning of coercive action.

With these developments, the RG Kar corruption case has once again come into sharp focus, and all eyes are now on the court regarding Akhtar Ali’s appearance in the coming hours.

Hindusthan Samachar / Satya Prakash Singh