Locals urge CS, DC Rajouri to investigate this serious matter thoroughly
Ajay Sharma
RAJOURI: In a startling revelation from the Sunderbani Tehsil of District Rajouri, allegations have emerged regarding the issuance of Economically Weaker Section (EWS) certificates to undeserving candidates in the Nala Panchayat, specifically in the village of Barnara.
According to sources, some locals in Barnara have raised concerns about the misuse of power by local authorities, particularly the Patwari, who is believed to be at the center of the controversy.
It is alleged that the Patwari, in collaboration with a local PRI member, manipulated the EWS certification process, granting eligibility to individuals who do not meet the criteria.
“Several candidates who are financially well-off—owning properties worth crores, multiple residences, and businesses—have unjustly received EWS certificates,” sources claimed, adding that some of these individuals have even secured government jobs based on their fraudulent EWS status, effectively depriving genuinely deserving poor candidates of their rightful opportunities.
Local residents have claimed that the issuance of these certificates was done under the influence of a particular PRI member.
“The process was marred by corruption, with the Patwari providing favorable reports after being influenced by personal connections, including social gatherings like lunches and dinners,” sources alleged, adding that locals are demanding a thorough investigation.
Residents urged the Chief Secretary and Deputy Commissioner, Rajouri, to investigate the matter thoroughly. They also requested to fix accountability for those responsible for this injustice and for the rightful candidates, who have been wronged, to receive their due.
Talking to ‘The Northlines,' locals expressed their resentment, questioning how individuals with substantial assets could be categorized as economically weaker.
