Pune – In a significant development in the ongoing investigation into a major financial scandal, a local court has denied pre-arrest bail applications for thirteen individuals implicated in the embezzlement of Rs 4 crore from the bank account of Sassoon Hospital. The ruling was delivered by Sessions Judge D. P. Ragit. The accused include key personnel from the hospital, such as Senior Assistant Cashier Sulakshana Chabukswar, Room Attendant Nilesh Shinde, and Superintendent Suman Valkoli, among others. Their bail applications were collectively rejected in light of the serious nature of the allegations against them.
The case, which has drawn significant attention, involves a total of 25 individuals, following a complaint lodged by Goroba Awte, the hospital's administrative officer. The investigation revealed that from July 31, 2023, to January 24, 2024, approximately Rs 4 crore 18 lakh 62 thousand 942 was allegedly withdrawn from the Baroda Bank account of Sassoon Hospital. The funds were reportedly redirected into accounts belonging to the accused and others, raising serious concerns about financial misconduct within the institution.
Upon denying bail, Additional Public Prosecutor Leena Pathak emphasized the extensive scope of the crime and the potential for further investigation. Pathak argued that custodial interrogation of the suspects is crucial to uncover the full extent of the embezzlement scheme and to identify any additional parties involved. She highlighted that granting pre-arrest bail could obstruct ongoing investigations and hinder efforts to recover the misappropriated funds.
As the case unfolds, the focus remains on understanding the motives behind the embezzlement, how the stolen funds were utilized, and whether any further accomplices may be implicated in this significant breach of trust within one of Pune's key healthcare facilities. Authorities are expected to continue their rigorous investigation as they aim to bring all those responsible to justice. The court's decision underscores the seriousness of financial misconduct in public institutions and serves as a reminder of the need for accountability and transparency in managing public funds. Further hearings are anticipated as the legal proceedings progress.