New Delhi, August 26, 2025 — The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has launched a probe into alleged large-scale corruption in hospital construction projects in Delhi, valued at nearly Rs 5,590 crore, while the Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Tuesday carried out raids at 13 locations, including the residence of Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader and former Delhi Health Minister Saurabh Bhardwaj.
The alleged scam pertains to irregularities in projects sanctioned by the Delhi government during 2018–19 for building new hospitals and expanding Intensive Care Units. According to investigators, project budgets were manipulated, funds diverted, and contractors colluded with officials to justify massive cost escalations and unauthorized construction.
Alleged Irregularities in Hospital Projects
Preliminary findings suggest that despite nearly Rs 800 crore already spent, only about half the construction work at several major hospital sites was completed, even after three years. In some cases, project costs saw a steep rise without corresponding progress. At LNJP Hospital, for instance, the budget is said to have nearly tripled with little advancement on the ground.
The probe is also examining whether portions of public funds allocated to healthcare infrastructure were misappropriated or laundered through private contractors. Several incomplete or abandoned sites are under scrutiny for unauthorized construction and suspected diversion of resources.
ED Raids and Political Reaction
The ED conducted searches under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act, targeting locations linked to Saurabh Bhardwaj, AAP leaders, and contractors connected to the projects. The raids sparked sharp political reactions, with Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and senior leader Atishi dismissing the action as politically motivated.
AAP leaders argued that Bhardwaj was not the health minister when the projects were initiated and accused the central government of using investigative agencies to divert attention from other controversies, including the ongoing debate over the Prime Minister’s academic qualifications.
Scope of the Investigation
With central agencies pressing ahead, the case has triggered a political storm in the capital. While investigators call it a matter of massive corruption and misuse of healthcare funds, AAP maintains the allegations are baseless and part of a larger political vendetta.
The outcome of the probe could have far-reaching implications for both Delhi’s healthcare infrastructure and the political fortunes of the AAP leadership.
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