Imran Naikoo

Srinagar, May 31 (Gulistan News): The lapse of ₹90 crore in funds at SKIMS Soura has raised serious questions about administrative efficiency and accountability at the premier health institution. Two months since the issue surfaced, the investigation appears to be moving at a snail’s pace, with no clear answers forthcoming.

SKIMS Director Dr. Mohammad Ashraf had earlier assured Gulistan News that a committee was formed to investigate the reasons behind the fund lapse. However, when asked about the progress and details of the committee’s report, Dr. Ashraf provided ambiguous responses.

Speaking to the media, Dr. Ashraf said, “This pertains to three years of data, and when we hold a Public Darbar, the data will be shared with you.” On being asked who heads the committee, he stated, “There are so many committees, I don’t remember; we will see.” This lack of clarity has deepened concerns among stakeholders and the public.

The issue first surfaced in March when the J&K government informed the Legislative Assembly that ₹90 crore in capital expenditure funds had lapsed over the past three financial years. The breakdown revealed ₹34.16 crore remained unutilized in 2021-22, ₹21.72 crore in 2022-23 and ₹34.22 crore in 2023-24.

At the time, the National Conference had demanded an inquiry to fix accountability for the delays that compromised healthcare delivery at the institute. Similarly, the PDP had also called for a thorough investigation into the issue.

Meanwhile, when asked about the State Health Agency’s (SHA) recent show-cause notice issued to SKIMS Soura and 10 other government hospitals over alleged misuse of the Ayushman Bharat – Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY), Dr. Ashraf denied any misuse of the scheme, stating, “The scheme has set spending limits and we adhere to them. A meeting with the State Health Agency is scheduled to clarify the issues. Additionally, a committee has been formed to review the matter.”
(Gulistan News)