Whistleblower alleges nepotism, misuse of public funds, illegal tenders, and abuse of power at Hindustan Antibiotics Limited
By NSB.News
A detailed complaint has been submitted to the Lokpal of India against Nirja Saraf, the Managing Director of Hindustan Antibiotics Limited (HAL), alleging corruption, nepotism, financial irregularities, abuse of authority, and misuse of government resources.
The complaint claims that since assuming charge in 2016, Nirja Saraf has allegedly awarded contracts to relatives and close associates in violation of procurement norms and Central Vigilance Commission guidelines. One allegation involves a Pune-based company, All-Star Innovation Pvt Ltd., which allegedly received a tender for supplying one lakh bottles despite quality concerns raised by HAL officials.
The whistleblower has also accused the HAL management of threatening employees with suspension, termination, and transfers to remote locations if they opposed irregularities. According to the complaint, a climate of fear exists within the PSU, preventing staff from speaking against alleged corruption.
Serious allegations have also been made regarding the misuse of HAL guest houses, government vehicles, and the appointment of relatives to key financial positions. The complaint further alleges that a madrasa is being operated illegally on HAL government land without authorization.
Another major allegation concerns an alleged ₹100 crore Health ATM procurement scam in Maharashtra. The complaint claims that more than 1,500 health machines were procured without a transparent tendering process and at inflated prices, causing significant financial losses to the government.
Several private companies, including Mediginic Health Solutions, Pharma Ship Company, Kabir InfoTech, and others, have been named in the complaint for alleged irregular contracts, inflated payments, and failed projects. The whistleblower has alleged that many purchased machines and systems remain unused despite full payments being released.
The complaint also refers to earlier controversies involving HAL, including a 2017 complaint regarding expensive accommodation expenses for the MD and a 2021 case involving missing machinery from a HAL subsidiary.
The complainant has urged the Lokpal to order a forensic audit of HAL’s finances, tenders, and appointments from 2016 onwards, suspend the accused officials during the investigation, and provide protection to whistleblowers and employees cooperating with the probe.
However, neither Hindustan Antibiotics Limited nor Nirja Saraf has issued an official response to the allegations so far.