SARASWATI PARASAD PATHAK Vs. CENTRAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION

JUDGEMENT

(1.) A mega scam regarding execution and implementation of National Rural Health Mission (hereinafter referred to as the NRHM) in the State of U.P. took place between 2005-2011. A large sum of money to the tune of Rs.11080.53 crores was allocated by the Government of India for the State of U.P., Ministry of Health and Welfare under the said mission. Out of which a sum of Rs.9,13,377/- crores was released in due course. Large funds were misappropriated by the State Government Officials and other persons including persons holding political positions.

(2.) A bunch of writ petitions lead petition Being Writ Petition No.3611(PIL) of 2011 and other writ petitions, were filed before before the Lucknow Bench of High Court of Judicature at Allahabad. This High Court vide order dated 15.11.2011 referred the matter to the C.B.I. to enquire into the matter of execution and implementation of NRHM in the State of Uttar Pradesh. The High Court directed the C.B.I. to thorough enquire the misappropriation of the funds allocated by the Government of India to the State of U.P. under the said mission and on finding prima facie commission of the cognizance offence, C.B.I. should register cases in respect of such persons who were involved in commission of the cognizable offences.

(3.) NRHM is an ambitious project of the Central Government which was launched on 12.04.2015 throughout the country to provide accessible, affordable and quality health care to the rural population, especially vulnerable section of the society. Primary objective was to reduce the maternal mortality rate and infant mortality ratio besides general health care of the rural population. Memorandum of Understandings (MoU) was signed between Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, New Delhi and Government of U.P. on 22.11.2006 and NRHM scheme was launched in State of Uttar Pradesh on 01.04.2007.