Medical Procurement Scam: Neeraj Chopra's Bail Plea Rejected Over Ongoing Probe

A Delhi court has rejected the regular bail plea of Neeraj Chopra, former Deputy Controller of Accounts at the Central Procurement Agency (CPA), in an alleged Rs 839-crore medical procurement scam, observing that his release at this stage could hamper the ongoing investigation.

In an order passed on October 31, Special Judge Vidya Prakash said further investigation, including examination of the financial trail and the role of other individuals and entities, was still underway."The applicant/accused is not entitled to the concession of bail at this stage," the court said, clarifying that its observations were limited to the bail proceedings and did not reflect an opinion on the merits of the case.

The case stems from an FIR registered by the Anti-Corruption Branch (ACB) on June 2 following a complaint by the Directorate of Vigilance over alleged irregularities in the procurement of medicines, surgical items and medical equipment for the Delhi government's Health Department.

According to the prosecution, tender conditions were allegedly manipulated to favour selected firms linked to co-accused Rajiv Kumar alias Rajiv Rangeela, while competing bidders were disqualified without valid grounds. Purchase orders were also issued manually despite tenders being floated through the Government e-Marketplace (GeM) portal.

The prosecution cited the purchase of 448 portable X-ray machines at approximately Rs 38 lakh each, although the manufacturer had allegedly supplied them to the vendor at around Rs 14.92 lakh plus GST per unit.

Rejecting the defence's argument that Chopra had no role in procurement, the court said he was responsible for ensuring compliance with eligibility conditions and financial rules. It noted that his signatures appeared on procurement records, approvals and payment clearances.The judge also expressed concern over possible witness interference and record tampering, citing allegations that officials who raised objections were pressured.

Chopra was arrested on June 27. Three other accused, including former DGHS director Dr Vatsala Aggarwal, former CPA official Dr Vinod Kumar Ranga and businessman Rangeela, have also been arrested.The court observed that economic offences require careful consideration, particularly given their potential impact on public funds.