Vigilance Inquiry Ordered Against Panchayat Head in ₹35 Lakh Fraud Case

A vigilance investigation has been ordered against the Panchayat head for allegedly embezzling government funds in collusion with a contractor and other associates during the 2024-25 financial year. The accused reportedly used fake bills and forged mining “X” and “M” forms to siphon off public money.

The financial irregularity came to light in Rampur Bharapur village, under Paonta Sahib development block in the Nahan assembly constituency of Sirmaur district. It is alleged that the Panchayat head, in coordination with a contractor and accomplices, misappropriated approximately ₹35 lakh of government funds through fraudulent documentation during FY 2024-25.

The case surfaced after the village’s deputy head, Rajneesh Chaudhary, filed a Right to Information (RTI) request to gather evidence. Subsequently, he approached the High Court with detailed documentation. Acting on the complaint submitted to the Chief Justice, the High Court ordered a vigilance inquiry, which is currently underway. Rajneesh Chaudhary has submitted all documentary evidence before the investigating officer at the Nahan vigilance office.

Addressing a press conference on Friday, deputy head Rajneesh Chaudhary, along with former ward members Sheeshpal and Suresh Kumar, revealed the details of the alleged scam. According to them, the Panchayat head and associates misappropriated government funds. Evidence indicates that just two motorcycles allegedly transported 270 quintals of sand, gravel, and cement between Paonta Sahib and Rampur Bharapur in four trips. Shockingly, the 42-kilometer distance was reportedly covered in just 10 minutes, as recorded in the forged mining “X” forms.

Additionally, a four-wheeler pickup truck is said to have carried 2,170 kilograms of material—more than double its certified capacity of 945 kilograms—in clear violation of Regional Transport Office (RTO) regulations. The fraud was further compounded by double payment to the contractor for the same work and inconsistencies in the series of mining “X” forms. Even the mobile numbers of vehicle owners and drivers, Kamal and Manu, were found to be invalid, exposing the organized nature of the scheme.

Rajneesh Chaudhary appealed to the government and administration through the media to ensure a fair and impartial investigation. He demanded immediate action against the corrupt Panchayat head, the contractor, and their associates, holding them accountable for the embezzlement.