Pune, 26 June 2025: The Public Health Department had sanctioned a total of ₹23.79 crore in two phases for constructing a protective boundary wall at Yerawada Regional Mental Hospital. However, allegations have surfaced that a significant portion of the wall was never built, leading to suspected misappropriation of funds. Following the complaint, the Health Department has now ordered a formal inquiry by forming a special committee.
This incident dates back to the period between 2015 and 2017. Initially, ₹1.72 crore was approved in September 2015, followed by another ₹21.79 crore in October 2016 for the construction project. The funds were meant to build a secure perimeter wall around the hospital, but only a partial structure was erected. In some sections, the wall was constructed just for appearance, and in others, old walls were simply layered with new bricks.
Nearly a decade later, Additional Director of the Public Health Department, Dr. Sunita Golhait, has directed the Pune Regional Health Office to initiate an investigation and form a committee to look into the matter.
The complaint was originally filed in writing by health activist Sharath Ramanna Shetty with the Directorate of Health Services. As per the department’s letter, the Health Minister has also recommended an official probe into the issue.
Notably, documents related to this project are reportedly missing from the hospital’s records. The hospital administration has written to the Public Works Department four times, in April, May, and June this year, seeking details, but has yet to receive a response, according to Shetty.
A Pattern of Neglect?
Despite similar financial irregularities in the past, including misuse of funds for hot water facilities and food supplies, no action has been taken against any former medical superintendents or administrative officials over the last ten years.
Dr. Sunil Patil, a former superintendent, was also investigated in earlier cases, but no punitive steps were taken. This has led to skepticism over whether the current probe will lead to genuine accountability or simply be a formality.
“Only around 50% of the wall has been constructed, and even that is of substandard quality. This poses a potential risk to patients from external intrusions. The necessary paperwork is still unavailable, despite four follow-up requests to the Public Health Department. A decision will be taken once we receive the required information.”
Dr. Shrinivas Kolod, Medical Superintendent of Yerawada Mental Hospital
