The BJP government in Uttarakhand has recommended the immediate dismissal of former Municipal Commissioner Varun Chaudhary and imposed a major punishment on former District Magistrate Karmendra Singh for serious negligence in the Haridwar land purchase scam. Recommendations for action against both officials are being sent to the Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT) as per rules.
Additionally, an adverse entry will be recorded in the service record of Ajayveer Singh, the Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) at the time, and three of his annual increments will be withheld. Earlier, the government led by Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami had suspended several officials, including Karmendra Singh and Chaudhary, following initial investigations into the irregularities of the land scam case.
Chief Minister Dhami emphasized a zero-tolerance policy towards corruption, stating that transparency, accountability, and public interest are paramount in governance. The government’s actions are considered a significant crackdown on corruption in Uttarakhand, sending a strong message against the misuse of public funds and abuse of official positions.
Meanwhile, CM Dhami highlighted the progress of major development projects in the state since 2014 under the Narendra Modi-led government at the Centre. Notable advancements include the Rishikesh-Karnaprayag Rail Project, the All-Weather Road Project, airport expansions, and various connectivity schemes.
