Chhattisgarh Government Suspends SDM Over Land Scam
The Chhattisgarh government has suspended Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) Nirbhay Kumar Sahu, citing his role in the wrongful disbursement of Rs 43.18 crore in land compensation under the Bharatmala highway project. Sahu, who previously served as the SDM of Abhanpur, is the fifth official suspended in connection to the scam.
Land Compensation Fraud: How It Happened
Investigators have uncovered that compensation meant for legitimate landowners was fraudulently allocated to certain individuals. Key findings include:
- Manipulated land records to claim inflated compensation amounts.
- Irregular approvals and fund transfers made under the Bharatmala Project.
- Lack of oversight leading to the unauthorized disbursement of government funds.
Expanding Investigation and More Suspensions Expected
The state government has intensified its probe, hinting at more officials being complicit in the scam. This is the fifth suspension related to the case, indicating the depth of corruption in the land acquisition process.
Political Fallout: Congress Under Scrutiny
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led government in Chhattisgarh has blamed the previous Congress regime for financial mismanagement. While opposition leaders claim political motivations behind the suspensions, the government insists on accountability and legal action against corrupt officials.
Impact on the Raipur-Visakhapatnam Highway Project
The Raipur-Visakhapatnam Bharatmala corridor is a critical infrastructure project aimed at enhancing connectivity and boosting regional development. However, the corruption scandal threatens to delay its execution. Government officials have assured that corrective steps will be taken to prevent further financial misconduct.
Anti-Corruption Measures and Future Actions
To curb further irregularities, the government has ordered:
- A comprehensive audit of all land compensation transactions under the Bharatmala Project.
- Legal action against those found guilty of misappropriation.
- Stronger transparency measures in land acquisition processes.
The Chhattisgarh land compensation fraud is a major challenge for the government, highlighting administrative lapses and potential political ramifications. As investigations unfold, more officials may face disciplinary action, and public demands for accountability are growing.
