Bharatpur, June 9, 2025
The Rajasthan Medical Education Society (RAJMES), Jaipur has relieved Dr. Tarun Lal from the post of Principal at SJP Medical College, Bharatpur, due to his retirement at the age of 62. In his place, Dr. (Colonel) Rajat Srivastava has been reappointed — a move now drawing criticism due to his previous removal on charges of financial irregularities.

Dr. Srivastava earlier served as Principal from July 2020 to April 2022. He was removed after a departmental probe ordered by the then Collector, Alok Ranjan, found prima facie evidence of serious financial mismanagement. Allegations included:

• Non-tendered purchases worth ₹4.52 lakh for the college canteen.
• Depositing ₹31.58 crore of student fees in fixed deposits instead of RAJMES accounts.
• Opening unauthorized bank accounts in Bharatpur and depositing ₹9.73 crore.
• Improper purchase of CCTV systems without tender.
• Engaging a placement agency for longer than permitted.

A “show cause” notice was issued in December 2022, yet Dr. Srivastava has now been reinstated to the same post, despite the pending investigation.

This appointment has sparked discontent among faculty and students. Experts argue such decisions undermine transparency and integrity in public medical institutions.