A probe into the alleged disproportionate assets pertaining to a municipal officer in Jabalpur is investigating into alleged activities at Narmada Safai Samiti (NSS) and has taken a step towards sealing the office of NSS under the Economic Offences Wing (EOW).
The action comes after recent raids on property linked to the municipal corporation official Pola Rao have reportedly resulted in his assets going over his known sources of income by nearly ₹3 crore. The sanitation committee has been suspected to be involved in Rao’s affairs in some unacknowledged or “benami” capacity.
Officials informed of the investigation are looking into who is behind the committee and its financial affairs and contracts. After the Office had been sealed, they proceeded to search for documents, which included information regarding management, finances, contracts, and transactions, and then studied them in detail.
The committee has been thoroughly investigated regarding sanitation services in various municipal zones. Early signs showed the organisation had cleaning jobs in some 20 – 25 wards in five of the zones in the municipal corporation. The agency is reviewing the use of a proper process on these contracts.
Officially Rao holds a case that’s been garnering attention. Records show he was a supervisor, but he was on duty as in charge of health in the municipal corporation at the time of the investigation.
Previously, during searches by the EOW, cash, jewellery and property papers worth of the value of about ₹3 crore were found. Authorities said they may find that more officials, contractors and parties involved in the alleged irregularities were involved in the case.
The EOW has not yet released any new charges but officials said that the investigation continues and more is likely coming as financial records and seized paperwork are reviewed.