TV
Allegations have surfaced against Achyuta Samanta’s Kalinga Institute of Medical Sciences (KIMS) that it has embezzled government funds to the tune of Rs 100 crore during the Covid-19 pandemic.
On the allegations, Odisha Law Minister Prithviraj Harichandan on Sunday termed the matter as serious in nature and stated that the ‘Health Department will decide on these allegations’.
However, any misuse of the state treasury during the present administration will not go unchecked, he assured. The Minister further assured that the current government is committed to holding accountable those who will be found guilty of misappropriation.
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“It is very clear that under the present administration, all the aspects and issues pertaining to the provisions made earlier, looting state exchequer, will be taken up seriously. Those found guilty will be taken to task. Under no circumstances, those indulged in corruption will be spared,” said the State Law Minister.
The Law Minister further said that the issue of misappropriation of Covid funds is under the domain of the health department.
“The Odisha government will certainly review the aspects including those who had a role in embezzling government funds during Covid-19 pandemic,” Harichandan added.
Opposition Claims
The allegations echo past accusations made by opposition parties during the pandemic. Reports suggest that some of these claims have previously been substantiated by Right to Information activists, highlighting aspects of the misuse. The current focus is on ensuring that this critical period of the Covid-19 pandemic is scrutinized to uphold financial accountability, he said.
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The government has pledged to undertake a comprehensive examination of the matter, with decisions being expected in the coming days, said Harichandan.
Achyuta Samanta or any other KIMS official is yet to respond to the government fund embezzlement allegations.
