Investigation – Andhra High Court Orders Probe Into Alleged Misuse of Funds
Investigation – The Andhra Pradesh High Court has directed a detailed investigation into claims that government funds were improperly used for constructing a cement road in a privately owned layout in Proddatur, located in Kadapa district. The court’s order came during proceedings on a petition filed by Naguru Gangireddy along with six others, raising concerns about possible irregularities involving both private parties and local officials.
Court Raises Concern Over Possible Encroachment
While hearing the case, Justice Gannamaneni Ramakrishna Prasad observed that there appeared to be initial evidence suggesting unauthorized occupation of land. The judge indicated that the situation may involve cooperation between private individuals and certain authorities, leading to the alleged misuse of public resources.
The petitioners argued that an internal road within their private layout had been taken over by the management of Swami Vivekananda Junior College. According to their claim, this was followed by the use of municipal funds, amounting to Rs 3.54 lakh, to lay a cement road in that area.
Directive for CID-Led Investigation
In response to these allegations, the court has instructed the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) to carry out a thorough probe. The inquiry is to be overseen by an officer of Superintendent of Police rank, ensuring accountability at a senior level.
Additionally, the court has ordered that all related documents be collected from the municipal commissioner’s office to aid the investigation. These records will play a key role in determining whether due procedures were followed and whether any irregularities occurred.
The CID has been asked to submit its findings in a sealed report within six weeks, reflecting the urgency and seriousness attached to the matter.
Immediate Action on Disputed Road
As an interim measure, the court has directed authorities to block access to the disputed road. This step is intended to prevent further use or alteration of the site until clarity is achieved through the investigation.
The road in question reportedly connects the college premises to the private layout owned by the petitioners. By ordering barricading, the court has ensured that the current status remains unchanged during the inquiry process.
Officials’ Stand and Court’s Observation
Earlier, government officials had maintained that the road was constructed for public benefit rather than serving a specific group. They pointed to revenue records, stating that the land was classified as patta land, which they argued justified the development work.
However, the court noted that the available information suggested otherwise at first glance. The judge emphasized that the allegations of encroachment and improper use of funds required careful examination, particularly to understand whether there was any coordination between officials and private entities.
Next Hearing Scheduled
The case has been scheduled for further hearing on June 23. By then, the court is expected to review the CID’s progress or findings, which could significantly influence the direction of the case.
The outcome of the investigation may also have broader implications for how municipal projects are monitored and executed, especially in situations where public and private interests intersect.