Andhra Pradesh ACB Investigates Officer Over ₹3.6 Crore Disproportionate Assets
The Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) of Andhra Pradesh has launched a major investigation into Puram Balaji, the Assistant BC Welfare Officer of Kadiri Division in Sri Sathya Sai district, following the discovery of assets valued at approximately ₹3.60 crore that are allegedly disproportionate to his known sources of income. This case marks a significant escalation in the scrutiny of public officials in the state.
Fresh Case Registered After Earlier Trap
ACB officials registered a new case against Balaji, building upon an earlier trap case that was filed on February 5, 2026. Acting swiftly on the latest allegations, the bureau conducted simultaneous searches on April 20 at four key locations, including his residences in Kadiri and Rayachoti, to gather evidence and uncover the full extent of the alleged corruption.
Raids Uncover Extensive Asset Portfolio
During the intensive raids, investigators seized a trove of incriminating documents, property records, and financial details that point to large-scale asset accumulation. The assets identified in the operation include:
- 11 house sites and two residential buildings
- Cash amounting to ₹21.8 lakh
- Gold and silver ornaments valued at around ₹26.5 lakh
- Bank deposits of approximately ₹37.5 lakh
- Promissory notes worth ₹13 lakh
- Two cars: a Kia Seltos and a Maruti Swift Dzire
- Two motorcycles and various valuable household items
According to ACB sources, many of these properties were registered in the names of Balaji's family members, including his wife, daughters, and father, with a majority located in the erstwhile YSR Kadapa district. Further searches and detailed valuation processes are still ongoing to assess the total value and origins of these assets.
Background and Legal Proceedings
Puram Balaji, who joined government service in 1987 and rose through promotions to his current post in 2016, has been serving in Kadiri Division since June 2023. Officials have stated that he will be arrested after due legal procedure and produced before the Special Court for ACB cases in Kurnool. This case highlights the ACB's continued efforts to combat corruption and ensure accountability among public servants in Andhra Pradesh.
