Nims chief faces criminal action

The state vigilance and enforcement department has recommended “stringent disciplinary and criminal action” against the Nizam’s Institute of Medical Sciences director, Mr D. Prasada Rao, for committing financial irregularities.

The V&E report, the copy of which is available with this newspaper, pointed out to violation of rules and regulations by Mr Rao and four others which benefited a private contractor at the cost of the state exchequer. The works pertained to construction of buildings at NIMS University Campus in city outskirts.

When contacted, Mr Rao dismissed the very existence of the report, but the health special chief secretary, Mr J. Satyanarayana, told this newspaper that the report was sent by the vigilance commissioner to the department for action. “We will initiate action as per the report,” he said.

Other Nims officials against whom action is recommended include Mr K.T. Reddy (deputy director), Mr Sreedhar (financial controller), Mr Mazaruddin (engineer in-charge) and Mr Bhoopal Reddy (technical consultant).

The V&E pointed out that the contractor Nagarjuna Construction Company quoted 24.85 per cent excess to the approved estimate of Rs 80 lakh. The maximum excess that can be approved by the government agencies as per GO Ms No 133 is five per cent.