RGHS Scam: FIRs Filed Against 4 Pharma Stores, 2 Expelled From Scheme in Rajasthan

Massive scams are continuously being uncovered in the Rajasthan Government Health Scheme (RGHS). Taking major action, the government has filed FIRs against 4 pharma stores and expelled 2 from the scheme for fraudulent payments under the scheme. Fourteen employees found guilty in the case have been suspended, and a letter has been written to the department for action against 19 others.

Principal Secretary of the Medical and Health Department, Gayatri Rathore, stated that the state government adopts a zero-tolerance policy against any irregularities, corruption, or misuse in public welfare schemes, such as RGHS, ensuring strict action against those found guilty. Regular action is being taken to increase transparency in the scheme and effectively curb irregularities. The department has taken strict action in such cases, including filing FIRs. Additionally, the scheme is being strengthened through technological innovations.

Harjilal Atal, Chief Executive Officer of the Rajasthan State Health Assurance Agency, stated that the Additional Drug Controller has filed FIRs against Harikrishna Medical Store and Savariya Pharma Store in Bhilwara, canceling their drug licenses due to irregularities. These pharma stores fraudulently claimed payments for medicines and injections under the RGHS scheme, claiming they were not purchased. These pharma stores collected payments totaling approximately ₹27 lakh without actually selling any medicines.

Similarly, FIRs have been filed against Confed Pharma Stores in Rain (Nagaur) and Jayal (Nagaur), for irregularities. These pharma stores had tampered with RGHS prescriptions and fraudulently collected payments. Furthermore, cases of serious irregularities have been registered against Confed Pharma Shop No. 06, Bikaner, and Shop No. 5 Hanumangarh have been suspended from the scheme. Additional Chief Executive Officer Nidhi Patel stated that letters have been issued to the concerned departments for departmental action and recovery against 19 beneficiaries in cases of card misuse by beneficiaries. Previously, 54 personnel have been suspended in such cases. Currently, four more personnel have been suspended by the police department and 10 by the Ayurveda department.