Ajay Sharma
Rajouri, November 20: A Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) who was attached for his alleged involvement in corruption allegations, has reportedly been activating his political and bureaucratic channel to get nullify his attachment orders and for getting back for some plum post and reportedly approaching politicians and bureaucrats for the patronage.
According to sources, the officer, was attached to Social Forestry Department for his alleged engagement in corruption charge under the Green India Mission.
“Under the Green India Mission, funds were allocated for projects that reportedly never materialized on the ground, yet the money was withdrawn,” said sources, adding that following the revelation, a probe was launched.
A team’s investigation confirmed the misconduct, leading to the suspension of several officials, including a range officer and two block officers.
However, the implicated DFO, a resident of Tehsil Sunderbani in District Rajouri, was merely transferred to Jammu without any punitive action.
Sources within the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) revealed that funds were recovered from the accused officers, cementing the evidence of his involvement in corruption.
“Despite this, it remains unclear if an FIR has been filed against the DFO. The absence of an official complaint raises questions about the handling of the case and protecting his, particularly as financial recovery typically follows the establishment of guilt,” said sources, adding that the DFO is now trying to secure another division after just six months of his involvement in corruption case.
Sources asserted that granting such a position to an officer with a tainted record undermines the government’s anti-corruption drive claims..
Meanwhile, locals have requested the Anti-Corruption Bureau to act decisively by filing an FIR and pursuing legal action.
“Some people have also appealed the Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir to uphold their commitment to eradicating corruption from governance,” said sources, adding that the reappointment of corrupt officials could lead to further misuse of public funds and erode trust in administrative systems.
