22/10/2025
The Commission for the Investigation of Abuse of Authority (CIAA) has filed a corruption case against 15 individuals, including former Director of Health Services Dr. Sangita Mishra Kaushal, over the purchase of health equipment.
The case targets 13 department staff, the supplying company Maxim Incorporation, and its director Sundar Bhusal. The CIAA alleges that five 3D mammography machines were purchased at more than double their actual cost, resulting in financial irregularities.
The Health Service Department bought the machines at NPR 2.51 crore each, totaling NPR 12.55 crore, which, including VAT, amounted to NPR 14.18 crore. However, customs documents from Tribhuvan International Airport revealed the actual purchase cost was €4.5 million, approximately NPR 6.99 crore, less than half of the amount recorded.
The machines, made in Italy, were sent to hospitals including BP Koirala Institute, Chitwan Cancer Hospital, Nizamati Hospital, Lumbini Provincial Hospital, and Narayani Hospital.
CIAA investigations also revealed that the cost estimates were manipulated. Three companies submitted rates for the purchase, and Sundar Bhusal, involved in one of these companies, was allegedly part of the collusion in approving inflated costs.
The machines are used for tumor detection and other diagnostic purposes. At the time of the purchase, Mohan Basnet was serving as Health Minister.
This case highlights alleged systematic corruption in the procurement of critical health equipment during the COVID-19 period.