Gujarat: Did a Gram Vikas Adhikari Embezzle Rs 70 Lakh Using Sarpanch's ID?
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Synopsis
In a shocking turn of events, Pratapgarh Police arrested a Gram Vikas Adhikari for embezzling a staggering Rs 70 lakh using the Sarpanch’s digital ID. This case unveils the depths of fraud within local governance and raises questions about accountability and oversight in the management of public funds.
Key Takeaways
- Significant fraud in local governance revealed.
- Improper use of digital IDs raises concerns.
- Need for enhanced financial oversight.
- Authorities pursue additional suspects.
- Importance of accountability in public service.
Jaipur, Aug 19 (NationPress) In a significant action against financial misconduct, Pratapgarh Police have apprehended a Gram Vikas Adhikari (Village Development Officer) for allegedly misappropriating nearly Rs 70 lakh from government funds.
The suspect reportedly exploited the Sarpanch’s digital ID to execute fictitious payments via fraudulent invoices. This operation was conducted under the supervision of District Superintendent of Police B. Aditya, Additional SP Parbat Singh, and Acting Circle Officer Gajendra Singh.
A specialized team led by Dhamotra Police Station in-charge Ghisulaal arrested the primary suspect, Bhupesh Patidar, in this case. The fraud was unveiled after Dilip Meena, the Sarpanch of Samli Pathar Gram Panchayat, lodged a police complaint. He claimed that Bhupesh Patidar, who was serving as the Gram Vikas Adhikari and had been wrongly given additional responsibility for the Panchayat, had exploited the system.
According to the complaint, payments on the e-Panchayat platform necessitate verification via both the Sarpanch's and the Gram Vikas Adhikari's SSO (Single Sign-On) IDs.
However, the Development Officer of the Panchayat Samiti in Pratapgarh illicitly linked the Sarpanch’s ID to Bhupesh Patidar’s, permitting him to independently approve payments at both verification stages.
Taking advantage of this arrangement, Bhupesh Patidar—alongside Pawan Talaich, another Development Officer—redirected government funds to fictitious firms that neither supplied materials nor offered services. In some cases, they even sought payments for incomplete development projects.
Following the complaint, a case was lodged at Devgarh Police Station, and the inquiry was assigned to the Dhamotra police team.
During questioning, Bhupesh Patidar confessed to the crime, asserting that he was swayed by the Development Officer, technical officials, and various construction companies.
He acknowledged transferring funds using his SSO ID at both stages of approval without the Sarpanch's awareness. The arrested individual, Bhupesh Patidar (32), hails from Surwania, Banswara district, and was stationed in Samli Pathar Gram Panchayat at the time of the fraudulent activities.
He has been presented in court and is currently under police custody for further questioning.
Authorities are actively pursuing other individuals and entities implicated in the scam. The team responsible for this successful operation included Station House Officer Ghisulaal and Constables Jaipal Singh and Jitendra.
Point of View
I believe this incident highlights critical lapses in governance and the need for stringent checks and balances in public financial management. It is essential to uphold integrity within local government structures to maintain public trust.
NationPress
19/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was arrested in the fraud case?
Bhupesh Patidar, a Gram Vikas Adhikari, was arrested for allegedly embezzling Rs 70 lakh using the Sarpanch's ID.
How was the fraud discovered?
The fraud was uncovered after Sarpanch Dilip Meena filed a complaint regarding unauthorized payments.
What role did the Sarpanch's ID play in the fraud?
Bhupesh Patidar misused the Sarpanch's digital ID to process fake payments, bypassing necessary verifications.
What actions have authorities taken?
Pratapgarh Police have launched an investigation and arrested the main suspect, with efforts underway to identify other individuals involved.
What will happen next in this case?
Bhupesh Patidar has been remanded to police custody for further questioning as authorities delve deeper into the investigation.
