Shimla, August 22: The investigation into alleged irregularities in the Himcare health scheme in Himachal Pradesh is set to expand to the administrative level, with the State Vigilance and Anti-Corruption Bureau preparing to question the then Health Secretary.
The Special Investigation Team (SIT) is examining records related to the implementation and policy approvals of the scheme. Officials have already scrutinised records at IGMC Shimla and examined documents and claims related to private hospitals.
Former IGMC Senior Medical Superintendent and BJP MLA Dr Janak Raj has already been questioned in connection with the ongoing inquiry into alleged irregularities in the implementation, supervision and processing of Himcare claims.
According to reports, the Vigilance team is now gathering records related to administrative monitoring, treatment rates, empanelment of private hospitals, claim verification, payment procedures and audit mechanisms. The former Health Secretary is expected to be questioned about policy-level approvals and the administrative oversight exercised during the implementation of the scheme.
The SIT is also examining whether complaints and audit objections related to the scheme were received and what action, if any, was taken. Records and correspondence from the Health Directorate, Secretariat and IGMC are also being brought under the scanner as the investigation progresses.
The Himcare inquiry was initiated on the directions of the Himachal Pradesh government, with the investigation examining the roles and responsibilities of officials and other stakeholders connected with the scheme.
