Shahdol | A bribery investigation in Madhya Pradesh has uncovered a major administrative irregularity after a contractual medical officer, arrested for allegedly accepting a ₹5,000 bribe, was found to have been officially posted in three different districts at the same time. The revelation has raised serious questions about the Health Department’s monitoring and verification mechanisms, prompting authorities to order a detailed inquiry in Khargone district.
On July 3, the Lokayukta Police arrested contractual Medical Officer Dr. Mahesh Chand Sharma while he was allegedly accepting a ₹5,000 bribe at the Ufri Primary Health Centre in Shahdol district. During the subsequent investigation, officials discovered that Dr. Sharma’s name was not only listed as a contractual medical officer in Shahdol, but also in Khargone and Sheopur districts.
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According to preliminary official records, Dr. Sharma has been shown as posted at the Primary Health Centre in Keli, under Segaon block of Khargone district, since February 2023. The disclosure has raised concerns over how a single doctor could remain officially posted in three districts simultaneously and how his attendance and salary records were processed without detection.
Following the revelation, the Chief Medical and Health Officer (CMHO) of Khargone directed the Block Medical Officer of Segaon to conduct a comprehensive inquiry. The investigation will examine appointment records, joining reports, attendance registers, salary disbursement records, leave details, and other service documents.
Officials stated that if the inquiry confirms salary payments were made despite the alleged irregularity, it would point to a serious lapse in the administrative monitoring system. The findings of the investigation will also be submitted to the Managing Director of the National Health Mission (NHM).
The case has brought the Health Department’s oversight and verification mechanisms under scrutiny. Investigators are now examining at what level the alleged irregularities occurred, how appointment and attendance records were verified, and whether any officials were responsible for the apparent administrative lapse.
Both the bribery case and the alleged multiple postings remain under investigation. Authorities have emphasized that the allegations and findings are subject to the outcome of the ongoing inquiry and the due legal process.
About the author — Suvedita Nath is a science student with a growing interest in cybercrime and digital safety. She writes on online activity, cyber threats, and technology-driven risks. Her work focuses on clarity, accuracy, and public awareness.
