Shimla, Jan 3,
The Himachal Pradesh government has taken swift action following the disclosure of a major scam in the Jal Shakti Department in Theog, Shimla.
In a major development, the Government of Himachal Pradesh has placed five senior officials of the Jal Shakti Department under suspension following a preliminary inquiry into alleged embezzlement in the deployment of water tankers under the Matiana and Kasumpti Divisions.
The inquiry, conducted by the Superintending Engineer, Jal Shakti Circle Shimla-9, revealed lapses and irregularities involving multiple officers. The vigilance probe identified 5 officials as implicated in the alleged embezzlement.
The preliminary report revealed discrepancies in the deployment and operation of water tankers under the Matiana and Kasumpti Divisions, pointing towards financial mismanagement and potential misuse of public funds.
The involvement of 5 other junior officials, including JEs and retired personnel, was also noted in the report. While these junior officials have not been declared suspended yet, further disciplinary action may be initiated based on the findings of the full investigation.
The Addl. Chief Secretary (Jal Shakti) directed the Engineer-in-Chief of the Water Power Department, Tutikandi, Shimla, to initiate further proceedings as per the report’s recommendations. A government spokesperson stated, “We are committed to ensuring transparency and accountability in public service. This action demonstrates our zero-tolerance policy towards corruption.”
The scam, initially brought to light through an RTI by senior CPI (M) leader and former MLA Rakesh Singha, revealed discrepancies in the transportation of water. Documents indicated that water worth crores of rupees was allegedly transported using scooters, Swift Dzire cars, and private vehicles — a claim deemed highly implausible.
Also read: Scam in Theog exposes corruption in Water Supply System
Upon learning of the matter, Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri, who also oversees the Jal Shakti Department, ordered an immediate investigation. Speaking about the case, he affirmed the government’s commitment to zero tolerance towards corruption. “No accused will be spared. Strict action will be taken against anyone found guilty,” Agnihotri stated, confirming the suspensions as an initial step.
The inquiry was initiated under SDM Manish Sharma’s leadership, and the findings, completed within a week, led to the suspensions.
Rakesh Singha, who exposed the scam, emphasized the importance of holding those responsible accountable. “Such fraudulent activities not only tarnish the department’s reputation but also betray public trust,” he remarked.
The government has promised further legal and administrative action based on the investigation’s next phase to ensure justice and safeguard public resources.
