Early Times Report
Jammu, Feb 19: In a significant development, the Crime Branch, Economic Offences Wing (EOW) in Jammu has filed a charge sheet against a Drilling Engineer who formerly served as the Drawing & Disbursing Officer (DDO-1) of the Geology and Mining Department, Jammu, for alleged criminal breach of trust and embezzlement of funds amounting to Rs 33 lakh,
including General Provident Fund (GPF) and 7th Pay Commission arrears of employees.
The accused, identified as Aijaz Mir, currently under suspension, faces charges related to misappropriation of funds while serving in his official capacity. The charge sheet has been presented in the court of law for judicial determination by the Investigating Officer, Inspector Taranjeet Singh, under the supervision of SSP Crime, Jammu, Benam Tosh.
The complaint was lodged by Mr. Shiban Lal Bhat, then Drill Operator Grade-2 of the Geology & Mining department, alleging non-receipt of his sanctioned GPF, which was discovered to have been credited to the account of the DDO. Subsequent investigations revealed a substantial fraud amounting to Rs 33,03,447.00 concerning GPF and 7th pay commission arrears of multiple employees.
Upon receipt of the complaint, the Director of Geology & Mining department constituted a high-level enquiry committee, which confirmed the fraudulent activities. The findings were submitted to the Crime Branch Jammu for further investigation and legal action.
Following thorough investigations, the Crime Branch registered a case under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code and the Prevention of Corruption Act against the accused DDO and his Cashier, who is deceased, for criminal breach of trust, criminal conspiracy, and fraud.
The completion of the investigation has led to the filing of a charge sheet in the court of Special Judge Anti Corruption, Jammu, indicating that the offenses have been substantiated with evidence. The charge sheet marks a crucial step towards seeking justice and accountability in the alleged embezzlement case, ensuring that those responsible are held accountable for their actions. |
