Shimla, June 17
In a significant crackdown, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has registered three cases and conducted searches at 24 locations across four states including Himachal Pradesh, uncovering alleged irregularities and illegalities in the procurement of fruit plants in Uttarakhand. The raids, which resulted in the recovery of Rs 13.5 lakh in cash and fixed deposits worth Rs 35 lakh, were carried out in compliance with orders from the Hon’ble High Court of Uttarakhand.
The preliminary enquiry by the CBI revealed substantial discrepancies in the procurement process of fruit plants during the financial year 2022-23. The investigation led to the registration of three FIRs against multiple accused, including senior officials from the Directorate of Horticulture and Food Processing, Dehradun, and other related departments. Among those named are the former Director of the Directorate of Horticulture and Food Processing, two Chief Horticultural Officers, a Nursery Development Officer, a Potato Development Officer, and a Senior Horticulture Inspector, along with several private individuals and business entities.
The searches spanned multiple states, with locations in Uttarakhand (Dehradun, Rishikesh, Nainital, Pithoragarh, Udham Singh Nagar), Uttar Pradesh (Ambedkarnagar, Baghpat, Noida, Lucknow), Himachal Pradesh (Ponta Sahib, Rajgarh, Solan), and Jammu & Kashmir (Kulgam, Pulwama) being targeted. These coordinated raids resulted in the seizure of significant cash and financial documents, including seven fixed deposits of Rs 5 lakh each, registered in the name of an accused’s wife.
The CBI’s investigation points to a wide network of corruption and malpractice in the procurement and distribution of fruit plants intended for agricultural development in Uttarakhand. Allegations include inflated prices, substandard plant materials, and fraudulent transactions involving both government officials and private suppliers.
This extensive probe was initiated following a directive from the Uttarakhand High Court, emphasizing the need for transparency and accountability in public procurement processes. The involvement of high-ranking officials highlights the depth of the alleged corruption within the horticulture sector.
The ongoing investigation aims to unravel the full extent of the malpractices and bring those responsible to justice. The CBI’s actions underscore its commitment to rooting out corruption and ensuring integrity in public service.
As the case progresses, further details are expected to emerge, shedding more light on the operational intricacies and the individuals involved in this alleged scandal.
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