Chhattisgarh Forest Minister Mohammed Akbar on Friday announced suspension of forest department officer after the Leader of Opposition in Chhattisgarh assembly Dharamlal Kaushik raised the issue of forgery in utilization of Compensatory Afforestation Fund Management and Planning Authority (CAMPA).
The minister also assured House that he would take further action against others if their involvement is found.
During the ongoing monsoon session of state legislative assembly, Kaushik through a call attention motion raised the issue of alleged misappropriation of CAMPA funds in Belgehna forest circle of Bilaspur forest division.
A complaint was lodged on September 29, 2021. The Deputy Divisional Forest Officer submitted a probe report. The report found irregularities and payment of Rs 8,59,407 to 15 workers. The then posted Ranger and Deputy Ranger was found guilty.
Similarly, at Kahuwa Nala for stop dam construction, instead of actual payment of Rs 2,39,419 the amount of Rs 8,73,411 was paid. Kaushik sought immediate action against those involved in both the forgery.
Accepting it, Forest Minister Mohammed Akbar said that officials have indulged in defrauding the government of its money as per probe report.
In both cases, the higher authorities are further probing the details after which as per legal action will be initiated.