CBI Proposes, NIPER Disposes: The Untold Saga of Inaction and Power Play
In a story that reeks of institutional inaction and questionable priorities, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) is embroiled in a protest petition being heard in the CBI Court at S.A.S. Nagar (Mohali), Punjab. Despite years of effort and a detailed investigation, no significant action has been taken on the agency’s recommendations. The case, now adjourned to January 18, 2025, continues to highlight glaring systemic failures and unresolved accountability.
Documents accessed by our team reveal a critical CBI report, dated December 8, 2020, signed by Officer Surinder Singh Bhullar. Tragically, Bhullar passed away due to a severe ailment a few months after submitting the report, leaving behind a legacy of unheeded diligence.
The report recommended action against multiple officials and entities associated with the National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER), Mohali. The individuals named included:
- Mr. Anil Gupta – Former Storekeeper, now retired.
- Mr. Nityananda Gahan – AG-I, also retired but rehired as a consultant by the institute.
- Dr. Dipika Bansal – Promoted to Associate Professor and now Head of the Department of Pharmacy Practice.
- Dr. K. B. Tikoo – Elevated to Dean of the institute in December 2024.
- Dr. I. P. Singh – Appointed Head of the Department of Natural Products.
- Sh. R. S. Thakur
- Dr. Dhanraj E.
- Dr. A. S. Bhatia
- Dr Pramil Tiwari
- Several firms, including M/s R. K. Enterprises, Diksha Computers, Balaji Enterprises, Subhash Jewellers, and New Lovely Tent House.
Four Years of Silence
Shockingly, four years have passed since the submission of this report, and not a single action has been taken against any of the individuals or entities named. Instead, many of them have been rewarded with promotions or lucrative roles. This glaring inaction paints a troubling picture of governance at NIPER and raises questions about the institution’s commitment to accountability.
In an earlier instance, when Dr. Raghuram Rao Akkinepally was NIPER’s Director, the CBI had recommended the removal of Mr PJP Singh Waraich as Registrar. However, with the backing of influential figures like Mr. Rajneesh Tingal, Joint Secretary, and Dr. V. M. Katoch, Chairman of the Board of Governors, Waraich was retained. The Board merely restricted him from handling files related to the CBI case, a move widely regarded as a half-measure.
The Nexus of Power and Inertia
The narrative reveals a disturbing trend: those named in the CBI’s report continue to hold positions of power, making crucial decisions at the institute. It appears that the recommendations of a premier investigative agency like the CBI hold little sway over NIPER’s administration, its Board of Governors, or even the Department of Pharmaceuticals, Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers.
Adding to the complexity, NIPER’s Director, Dr. Dulal Panda, finds his own appointment under scrutiny. This predicament seemingly ties his hands, leaving him unable—or unwilling—to act against those implicated. The Department of Pharmaceuticals and the Board of Governors have similarly failed in their oversight roles.
A Governance Vacuum
Further complicating matters is the dual role assumed by Dr. Dulal Panda. Following the demise of Dr. Girish Sahni, Chairman of the Board of Governors, on August 19, 2024, Panda has taken over as Chairman in addition to his role as Director. This move has rendered the Board of Governors practically ineffective, as the Chairman’s rulings on procedural matters are final.
According to NIPER statutes:
- In the absence of the Chairman, the Director presides over meetings.
- If both are absent, members may elect one among themselves.
However, no new Chairman has been appointed, allowing Panda to consolidate power. This raises serious concerns about the impartiality and efficacy of governance at NIPER.
A Call for Action
The situation at NIPER demands urgent attention. The continued inaction on the CBI’s recommendations not only undermines the agency’s credibility but also casts a shadow over the institute’s governance. With those implicated still in power, the institute’s ability to uphold integrity and transparency is in question.
The lack of accountability has also stymied attempts to shed light on the issue through the Right to Information (RTI) Act. Many believe that only a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) can compel action where administrative channels have failed.
As the case drags on, it is clear that the stakes are high, not just for the individuals named in the CBI report but for the very ethos of governance and accountability at NIPER. The Department of Pharmaceuticals and NIPER’s Board of Governors must introspect and act decisively to restore public faith. Failure to do so would set a dangerous precedent, where institutional inaction shields wrongdoing and erodes the foundation of public trust.
This unfolding saga is a stark reminder of the power dynamics that can stymie justice, and it calls for vigilance, transparency, and collective action to uphold the principles of accountability. (To be concluded)
