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Chhattisgarh SDM Suspended for Misusing Land Compensation Funds

In a significant development, the Chhattisgarh government has suspended Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) Nirbhay Kumar Sahu following allegations of wrongful disbursement of Rs 43.18 crore in land compensation under the Bharatmala highway project. Sahu, who previously served as SDM of Abhanpur, is accused of approving illegitimate payouts to certain landowners, raising serious concerns over the integrity of the land acquisition process.

Investigation Reveals Large-Scale Corruption in Land Acquisition

Preliminary findings from the probe suggest:

• Tampering of land records to inflate compensation amounts.
• Unauthorized approvals leading to massive financial losses.
• Possible involvement of multiple officials in the fraudulent scheme.

This case marks the fifth suspension in connection with the scam, with authorities suspecting a larger network of corruption in the state’s infrastructure projects.

Bharatmala Project and Its Growing Controversies

The Bharatmala Pariyojana, aimed at boosting road infrastructure, has come under scrutiny following allegations of financial irregularities in land compensation payments. The Raipur-Visakhapatnam Highway Corridor, a key project under this initiative, is at the center of the controversy, potentially leading to delays in construction and project execution.

Political Blame Game: BJP Targets Congress Over Alleged Corruption

The BJP-led state government has accused the previous Congress administration of gross mismanagement, citing this scandal as proof of deep-rooted corruption. However, Congress leaders argue that the suspensions are politically motivated and aimed at diverting attention from governance failures.

More Officials Under Investigation, Legal Action Expected

With the case expanding beyond initial suspensions, the government has initiated a comprehensive audit of land compensation records. Sources indicate that:

• More officials could face disciplinary action.
• Recovery proceedings may be initiated against those found guilty.
• Stricter financial oversight mechanisms will be put in place.

Government’s Steps to Prevent Future Scams

To prevent further financial misconduct, the state has announced:

• Enhanced digital tracking of land acquisition funds.
• Strengthened verification protocols for compensation approvals.
• Real-time monitoring of financial transactions in major infrastructure projects.

The Chhattisgarh land compensation scam has highlighted major governance lapses, sparking debates over transparency in public fund allocations. With investigations intensifying, further legal actions are expected, and the case could have wider political and administrative implications.