Nagpur High Court Initiates Suo Motu PIL Over Rs 4.32 Crore Dental Simulator Purchase
The Nagpur bench of the Bombay High Court has taken a significant step by registering a suo motu public interest litigation (PIL) concerning alleged irregularities in the procurement of dental simulators valued at Rs 4.32 crore at the Government Dental College and Hospital in Nagpur. This decisive action follows media reports that brought to light serious concerns regarding the acquisition and operational status of these high-cost training machines.
Court's Directive and Appointment of Amicus Curiae
A division bench comprising Justices Anil Kilor and Raj Wakode issued the order, emphasizing the gravity of the allegations. The court has appointed Advocate Ayushi Dangre as amicus curiae to assist in the proceedings. She has been directed to file a formal petition within a strict timeframe of two weeks to ensure the matter is addressed promptly.
Furthermore, the bench has instructed the dean of the Government Dental College and Hospital to provide full cooperation during the impending inspection and inquiry. This directive aims to facilitate a thorough investigation into both the procurement process and the current condition of the dental simulators, ensuring transparency and accountability.
Details of the Alleged Irregularities
According to reports presented before the court, three dental simulators were purchased for approximately Rs 4.32 crore. These machines were intended for training postgraduate students and trainee doctors, with an inauguration ceremony held on May 31, 2025. However, allegations have surfaced that the simulators became non-functional even before achieving full operational status and remained unused for a period of nine months, raising serious questions about their utility and maintenance.
Additional concerns have been raised regarding the purchase price, with claims suggesting that the equipment was acquired at rates significantly higher than the prevailing market prices. Some department heads have reportedly documented that the simulators were not fit for effective use, leading to fears that substantial public funds were expended without delivering the expected academic benefits.
Court's Emphasis on Public Interest and Medical Training
The bench highlighted the seriousness of these allegations, particularly as they involve substantial public expenditure and critical medical training infrastructure. By ordering the initiation of a suo motu PIL, the court underscores its commitment to safeguarding public resources and ensuring that educational institutions adhere to proper procurement standards. This move is expected to set a precedent for accountability in government-funded projects, especially in the healthcare and education sectors.
The case will now proceed with the formal registration of the PIL, where further evidence and testimonies will be examined to determine the extent of the irregularities and hold responsible parties accountable. The outcome of this litigation could have far-reaching implications for procurement practices in government medical colleges across the region.
