**Title:** ED Conducts Raids in Delhi Hospital Construction Corruption Case
**Meta Description:** The Enforcement Directorate investigates alleged corruption in Delhi’s hospital projects, raiding 13 locations including former minister Saurabh Bhardwaj’s residence.
**URL Slug:** ed-raids-delhi-hospital-corruption
**Headline:** Enforcement Directorate Launches Investigation into Delhi Hospital Construction Irregularities
The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has initiated a significant investigation into alleged money laundering linked to irregularities in hospital construction projects approved during the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government. On Tuesday, the agency conducted searches at 13 locations, including the residence of former Delhi minister Saurabh Bhardwaj, as part of this ongoing probe.
The searches spanned various locations in Delhi and its surrounding areas. However, the ED has yet to reveal specific details regarding any assets seized or the financial irregularities uncovered during the operation.
Saurabh Bhardwaj, a three-time Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) from Greater Kailash, has held multiple key positions, including Delhi’s Health, Urban Development, and Water Minister, and has chaired the Delhi Jal Board. He is also recognized as one of the official spokespersons for the AAP.
This investigation traces its origins to a complaint lodged by Vijender Gupta, the then Leader of Opposition, in August 2024. The complaint alleged corruption in the approval and execution of 24 hospital projects valued at Rs 5,590 crore during the fiscal years 2018-19. These projects encompassed the establishment of 11 new hospitals and the upgrading of 13 existing facilities.
According to the ED, the projects have been plagued by significant delays, cost overruns, and suspected embezzlement. Notably, none of the sanctioned hospitals were completed within the stipulated timelines, and several hundred crores in increased costs remain unaccounted for. One of the major initiatives, the Rs 1,125 crore ICU Hospital Project, which aimed to create 6,800 beds across seven pre-engineered facilities, is reportedly only halfway finished despite substantial expenditures.
The Anti-Corruption Bureau has filed a case against Bhardwaj and former Health Minister Satyendar Jain, following approval under Section 17A of the Prevention of Corruption Act. The allegations include manipulation of project budgets, misuse of public funds, and collusion with private contractors.
As the investigation unfolds, further developments are anticipated in this high-profile case involving significant public resources and accountability in government projects.
**FAQ Section:**
**Q: What prompted the ED’s investigation into the Delhi hospital projects?**
A: The investigation was initiated following a complaint alleging corruption in the approval and execution of 24 hospital projects worth Rs 5,590 crore during the AAP government’s tenure.
