National Medical College MD Ansari in CCU for two days, police seek extension of his custody

Published On: April 10, 2024 05:00 PM NPT By: Republica | @RepublicaNepal

KATHMANDU, April 10: Birgunj-based National Medical College’s Managing Director (MD) Shahnawaz Hussain Ansari has been admitted to a hospital after his arrest. He was arrested by the police on Monday. But citing health reasons, he was admitted to the hospital without being detained.

There is a recent trend where arrested VIPs have turned hospitals into detention centers. Home Minister Rabi Lamichhane had raised concerns about this issue with relevant authorities a week ago, but doubts remain regarding its implementation.

After Ansari's arrest, he was taken to Narayani Hospital in Birgunj for undergoing medical examination. But the hospital admitted him. The police allege that the Ansari family, which holds significant influence in the medical field, has exerted pressure on the hospital.

After that he was admitted to Birgunj Health Care (BHC) Hospital in Birgunj. “He is now in CCU for the past two days," said a police officer involved in the investigation.

A joint monitoring team of the District Police Office, Parsa, and Birgunj Metropolitan City raided the National Medical College in Birgunj on April 8. The monitoring team led by Kanhaiya Thakur, a member of the market management and monitoring committee of Birgunj Metropolitan City, conducted a raid on the laboratory (lab) in Block (A) of the National Medical College.

After finding expired medicines in the medical college, the police arrested the college's MD Ansari and lab technician Sanjay Sah.

The Parsa District Court initially granted a two-day custody extension for the two arrested individuals, with the deadline ending today. The police have sought a further extension, bringing the accused to the court for the second time. Ansari is represented by 10 lawyers.

Meanwhile, the police have initiated an investigation into the matter. They have requested additional time, stating that further testing of the drugs and chemicals found in the National Medical College is required.