FIR Filed Against Naubatpur Nagar Panchayat Officials for Sanitation Scam
In a significant crackdown on alleged corruption, the urban development and housing department in Patna registered a First Information Report (FIR) on Thursday against multiple officials and contractors linked to the Naubatpur nagar panchayat. This decisive action stems from a thorough investigation led by Patna District Magistrate Thiyagarajan S M, which uncovered serious financial and procedural irregularities in sanitation-related procurements.
Investigation Reveals Bypassed Procedures and Overpriced Purchases
The inquiry centered on the acquisition of essential sanitation items, including household dustbins, mobile toilets, and high-capacity refuse containers intended for urban sanitation services. Officials discovered that mandatory tender processes were allegedly circumvented, with no public notices issued in newspapers and competitive bidding replaced by restricted procurement methods. This deviation from standard protocols raised red flags about transparency and accountability.
According to the investigation report, the materials were purchased at prices significantly higher than prevailing market rates and failed to meet prescribed technical specifications. For instance, the mobile toilets procured under the scheme reportedly became unusable within a short period due to poor quality, highlighting severe lapses in quality control and due diligence.
Officials and Contractors Named in FIR
The FIR implicates several key figures, including the former chairman, executive officer, vice-chairman, and members of the standing committee of the Naubatpur nagar panchayat. Additionally, supply agencies and contractors involved in the transactions have been named, underscoring the broad scope of the alleged misconduct. This move signals a robust effort to hold all responsible parties accountable under the law.
Government's Stance on Corruption
Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Kumar Sinha emphasized the state government's unwavering commitment to integrity, stating, "The state govt maintains a policy of zero tolerance towards corruption and irregularities in govt schemes. The guilty will not be spared under any circumstances, and strict action will be taken as per the law." This statement reinforces the administration's dedication to rooting out malpractices and ensuring public funds are used efficiently and ethically.
The case highlights ongoing challenges in urban governance and procurement processes, with authorities vowing to implement stricter oversight to prevent similar incidents in the future. As the legal proceedings unfold, this incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of transparency and compliance in government operations.
