CBI Charges Pondicherry University Deputy Registrar with Amassing Disproportionate Wealth
In a significant development, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) in Chennai has formally booked K Mahesh, the deputy registrar of Pondicherry University, on serious allegations of accumulating wealth disproportionate to his known sources of income. The case centers on assets totaling approximately 54 lakh rupees amassed over a period of two and a half years, raising concerns about corruption and illicit enrichment.
Details of the Investigation and Check Period
According to the First Information Report (FIR) filed by the CBI, K Mahesh served as the registrar of Jawaharlal Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education and Research (JIPMER) on deputation from September 2023 to February 2025. The investigation agency designated this tenure, along with a few months before and after, as the check period for scrutinizing his financial activities. During this time, the CBI uncovered a stark disparity between Mahesh's income and the growth in his family's assets.
At the start of the check period, Mahesh and his family members possessed assets valued at just 15.9 lakh rupees. However, over the course of two years, their assets surged dramatically to 1.32 crore rupees. Concurrently, their expenditure amounted to 29 lakh rupees, while Mahesh's reported income was 93 lakh rupees. The FIR explicitly states, "Investigation reveals that Mahesh, in the capacity of public servant, intentionally enriched himself illicitly during the period of his office. The value of such disproportionate assets is 57.75% of his known sources of income during the said period."
Additional Properties and Ongoing Probe
In addition to the primary findings, the CBI has identified five other properties registered in the names of Mahesh's family members. The period of acquisition for these assets remains unclear at this stage. The FIR notes, "It will be looked into in the course of the investigation," indicating that the probe is ongoing and may uncover further details. This aspect underscores the complexity of the case and the potential for broader implications regarding asset concealment.
The case highlights ongoing efforts by central agencies to combat corruption in public institutions. As the investigation progresses, it is expected to shed more light on the mechanisms used for illicit wealth accumulation and the accountability of public officials. The CBI's actions serve as a reminder of the vigilance required to maintain integrity in administrative roles, particularly in educational and medical sectors.
