Uttarakhand Chief Minister Takes Swift Action Against Alleged Uniform Procurement Scam
In a decisive move against alleged corruption, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has ordered the immediate suspension of Amitabh Srivastava, the Director of Home Guards and Deputy Commandant. This action comes following serious allegations of financial irregularities in the procurement of uniform materials for the Home Guards and Civil Defence Department.
Formation of Joint Investigation Committee
Alongside the suspension, CM Dhami has directed the formation of a joint investigation committee to thoroughly probe the matter. This committee will investigate the procurement processes that occurred during the financial years 2024–25 and 2025–26, where significant discrepancies have been identified.
Report Reveals Shocking Financial Irregularities
The case came to light after a detailed report submitted by PVK Prasad, Director General of Home Guards and Civil Defence, flagged multiple violations. The report highlighted a concerning lack of transparency in the tender process and clear violations of prescribed government rules.
Most alarmingly, the investigation revealed that uniforms with an actual worth of approximately Rs 1 crore were purchased for a staggering Rs 3 crore, indicating massive financial mismanagement and potential corruption.
Specific Examples of Price Inflation
The report provided specific examples of how procurement prices were artificially inflated:
- A standard police baton, typically available for Rs 130 per piece, was procured at Rs 375
- Shoes, trousers, shirts, and jackets were purchased at rates two to three times higher than market prices
- Despite irregularities being detected in 2024–25, tenders were floated at the same inflated rates in 2025–26
Zero-Tolerance Policy Against Corruption
Chief Minister Dhami emphasized the state government's firm stance against corruption, stating, "State government is working on a zero-tolerance policy towards corruption, and irregularities or corrupt conduct at any level will not be tolerated. The strictest action will be taken against any officer or employee found guilty."
The unusually high procurement rates initially drew official attention, leading to a departmental inquiry that uncovered these alleged irregularities in the purchase of uniforms and related items. Acting on the Director General's recommendation, CM Dhami took the decisive steps of suspending Srivastava and constituting the joint investigation committee.
This case represents a significant test of Uttarakhand's anti-corruption mechanisms and demonstrates the government's commitment to ensuring transparency and accountability in public procurement processes.
