CBI Raids PCI Chief Montu Patel in Bribery Probe

Ahmedabad, Gujarat –  In a major crackdown on corruption in India’s pharmacy education system, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) conducted a raid on the Zundal bungalow of Montu Patel, President of the Pharmacy Council of India (PCI), in Ahmedabad. The high-profile action is part of a larger investigation into alleged bribery and irregularities surrounding the recognition of pharmacy colleges across multiple states, particularly Maharashtra.

Sources confirmed that Patel is under the scanner for allegedly accepting bribes at both his Delhi office and residence. Although Patel has not been taken into custody yet, the evidence collected from the raid is said to be significant.

“He sold recognition for money”

A senior CBI official, speaking on condition of anonymity, said, “There is credible evidence that college recognitions were being sold for money under Patel’s tenure. Fake entries, backdated approvals, and GPSC manipulation are all part of the racket we are now uncovering.”

The raid follows months of surveillance and complaints against Patel, who is accused of abusing his power to grant illegal approvals to pharmacy colleges, compromising educational standards for personal gain.

Fake records, GPSC manipulation

Investigators revealed that fake inward numbers, backdated entries, and tampered files in the Gujarat Public Service Commission (GPSC) system were allegedly used to get Patel and his associates elevated to senior posts within the PCI. These manipulations, officials believe, helped build a powerful internal network to protect corrupt practices.

Maharashtra’s pharmacy colleges under lens

The scope of the CBI probe now expands beyond Gujarat to other states—particularly Maharashtra, where a number of colleges reportedly obtained PCI recognition through fraudulent means. “The entire process of college accreditation is now under review,” said a CBI official.

The raids have triggered a wave of criticism against the Pharmacy Council of India. Activists and education experts are calling for a complete overhaul of PCI’s recognition process. “This is not just about one man. This is about the credibility of pharmacy education in India,” said one senior educationist.