the Assam government has suspended senior Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer Sewali Devi Sharma following allegations of significant financial irregularities during her tenure as the Executive Chairman-cum-Director of the State Council of Educational Research and Training (SCERT).
Allegations and Suspension
The suspension order, issued by the Personnel (A) Department of Assam, cites that Sharma, during her time at SCERT, unilaterally opened five bank accounts without obtaining the requisite approval from the state government. Furthermore, she was the sole signatory for these accounts, a practice that contravenes established financial protocols and the Fiscal Responsibility and Budget Management (FRBM) rules.
An internal inquiry into the operations of the Open and Distance Learning (ODL) program under SCERT uncovered substantial financial discrepancies. The investigation provided credible evidence pointing towards the misappropriation of funds, leading to the immediate suspension of Sharma to facilitate an unbiased and thorough investigation.
Legal Proceedings and Arrest
Following her suspension, Sharma became the subject of an intensive investigation by the Chief Minister’s Special Vigilance Cell. The probe revealed that approximately ₹105 crore had been misappropriated during her tenure at SCERT. As the investigation progressed, Sharma was apprehended in Ajmer, Rajasthan, where she had reportedly been evading arrest. The Assam Police, acting on intelligence inputs, located her at a hotel in Ajmer and took her into custody, along with two associates believed to be connected to the case.
Broader Implications
Sharma’s suspension and subsequent arrest are part of a broader crackdown on corruption within Assam’s administrative framework. Reports indicate that nearly 50 high-ranking officials, including members of the IAS, Assam Civil Service (ACS), and Assam Police Service (APS), are currently under suspension due to various corruption charges. This extensive action underscores the state government’s commitment to maintaining integrity and transparency within its institutions.
Government’s Stance on Corruption
The Assam government’s firm approach towards addressing corruption reflects its dedication to upholding ethical governance. By taking stringent action against officials found engaging in corrupt practices, the administration aims to restore public trust and ensure the efficient utilization of public funds. The suspension of a senior IAS officer like Sharma serves as a potent reminder of the government’s zero-tolerance policy towards financial misconduct.
Next Steps
As the investigation into the SCERT financial irregularities continues, authorities are meticulously examining records and transactions to identify any additional individuals involved in the misappropriation of funds. The government has assured that all those found complicit will face appropriate legal action, reinforcing its commitment to eradicating corruption from the state’s administrative machinery.
In conclusion, the suspension and arrest of IAS officer Sewali Devi Sharma highlight the Assam government’s proactive measures to combat corruption within its ranks. This decisive action not only aims to bring the guilty to justice but also serves as a deterrent to others, emphasizing the administration’s unwavering resolve to uphold transparency and accountability in governance.