The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has intensified its investigation into allegations of extensive corruption within the Pharmacy Council of India (PCI), the primary body responsible for accrediting pharmacy colleges nationwide. This probe follows numerous complaints about fraudulent practices and bribery under the leadership of PCI President Montu Patel.

Last week, CBI officials conducted a raid on Montu Patel’s residence in Gandhinagar. Patel is accused of orchestrating a massive embezzlement scheme, reportedly siphoning off over Rs 5,400 crore by approving college accreditations in exchange for bribes. Following these allegations, Patel has gone into hiding.

Patel allegedly charged Rs 8 lakh for renewing the accreditation of diploma colleges and Rs 15 lakh for B Pharma institutions annually. The illicit funds were reportedly used by Patel, his driver, and Jashu Chaudhary—a Congress leader and business associate—to acquire substantial land holdings in Gujarat and Uttar Pradesh.

The PCI oversees more than 12,000 pharmacy colleges across India. The CBI is scrutinizing how 870 colleges received approval within a mere 13 days during the 2023-24 period, with Patel at the center of this controversy. He is also accused of leveraging financial influence to secure victories in PCI’s internal elections.

**Profile of Montu Patel** Montu Kumar Patel, aged 35, hails from a modest background. After completing his education locally, he ventured into Pharmacy Council politics, initially serving in the Gujarat Pharmacy Council before ascending to the national body. His rise was facilitated by strategic alliances across political lines, culminating in his unopposed election as PCI chief from the ABVP panel.

**Allegations Against Patel** The investigation reveals that Patel expedited college recognitions through substantial bribes, often overlooking deficiencies in infrastructure and staffing. He is also under scrutiny for retaining his position post-defeat in Gujarat Pharmacy Council elections by nominating himself from a Union territory and allegedly suppressing dissent within the organization.

Additionally, the CBI is examining claims that Patel reserved hotel rooms worth Rs 2.75 lakh in Delhi to accommodate voters ahead of PCI elections. Post-election, he consolidated power by appointing loyalists to influential positions and granting them extensive approval authority.

Patel’s involvement extends to an IELTS scam involving his wife, Khushboo Vora, who allegedly impersonated candidates for a fee of Rs 30 lakh each. This scheme reportedly amassed them a fortune estimated at Rs 300 crore.