Rajasthan's CM Intensifies Anti-Corruption Measures; IPS Penalty Increased
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
Jaipur, March 9 (NationPress) Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma has taken decisive measures on Monday against various public servants for their negligence, indiscipline, and involvement in corruption.
In a significant review, the Chief Minister resolved over 50 cases concerning prosecution sanctions, issues under Section 17-A of the Prevention of Corruption (Amendment) Act, 2018, and departmental inquiries.
Sharma authorized prosecution against the former Sub-Divisional Officer and two officials from the Public Works Department and the Women and Child Development Department for issuing illegal orders that favored private entities and granted them undue advantages.
In another scenario, a former Secretary of the Agricultural Produce Market Committee was terminated from state service following a court conviction, while another official faced dismissal for extended absence.
The Chief Minister also sanctioned a comprehensive inquiry under Section 17-A of the Prevention of Corruption (Amendment) Act, 2018, against a former Development Officer accused of abusing power, making irregular payments, and inflicting financial losses on the public treasury.
In collaboration with the Union Public Service Commission, Sharma approved the increase of penalties against an Indian Police Service officer in two separate cases.
Moreover, in 23 cases involving serious allegations under Rule 16 of the CCA Rules, 27 state service officers faced penalties that included withholding of increments ranging from two to four, cumulatively.
Additionally, the Chief Minister sanctioned the withholding of pensions for five retired officials.
Investigation outcomes in nine other cases where the allegations were confirmed have been forwarded to the Governor for further proceedings.
Out of five appeals lodged by state service officers, four were denied, while one saw a reduction in the penalty.
In a case seeking prosecution sanction, a departmental inquiry was initiated; prosecution sanction was withheld in two instances, and acquittal was granted in three departmental inquiry cases.
The state government reiterated its commitment to fostering accountability and transparency in administration, ensuring stringent action against officials found culpable of corruption or misconduct.