Jharkhand High Court Issues Directives for RIMS Equipment and RMC Officials
The Jharkhand High Court has taken decisive action to address critical issues at the Rajendra Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS) in Ranchi. On Wednesday, a division bench comprising Chief Justice MS Sonak and Justice Rajesh Shankar issued a series of orders aimed at improving the hospital's infrastructure and tackling corruption related to encroachments on its campus.
Court Mandates Equipment Procurement Deadline
In response to a public interest litigation (PIL) highlighting the poor state of infrastructure at RIMS, the court directed the hospital administration to ensure that the purchase of all necessary equipment and machines is completed by May 30. This directive comes after the PIL, filed by social activist Jyoti Sharma, pointed out severe deficiencies, including vacant posts across various departments such as the dental college, nursing college, and paramedic wing under RIMS.
The PIL emphasized that patients often have to seek tests and treatments outside RIMS due to the lack of adequate facilities, underscoring the urgent need for upgrades. The court's order is expected to expedite the procurement process and enhance healthcare services at the autonomous hospital.
FIR Ordered Against RMC Officials for Encroachment
Simultaneously, the court addressed a petition from the Ranchi Municipal Corporation (RMC) seeking protection from legal action. The RMC had requested the high court not to lodge a First Information Report (FIR) against its officials responsible for sanctioning construction plans that led to encroachments on RIMS premises. However, the court rejected this petition and ordered the registration of an FIR against the implicated civic body officials.
Furthermore, the court mandated that RMC officers appear before the investigating officer in the case to cooperate with the ongoing inquiry. This move aims to hold accountable those involved in the unauthorized constructions that have compromised the hospital's campus.
Anti-Corruption Bureau Investigation Continues
The Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) presented a sealed report detailing the FIR lodged against corrupt officials of the RMC and other accused individuals involved in the encroachment. The court directed the ACB to continue its investigation and submit a status report on the matter. This step reinforces the judicial commitment to rooting out corruption and ensuring transparency in public administration.
The case is scheduled for its next hearing on April 23, where further developments and compliance with the court's orders will be reviewed. The PIL, initiated by Jyoti Sharma, has brought to light systemic issues at RIMS, prompting judicial intervention to safeguard public health and infrastructure.
This ruling underscores the high court's proactive stance in addressing governance failures and improving essential services in Jharkhand's healthcare sector.
