Srinagar: Two top executives from Srinagar Smart City Limited (SSCL) were recently arrested on corruption-related charges, exposing a network of financial irregularities. Investigators have hinted that other arrests may be made in the days ahead.
Suspicious bank transactions connected to the two officials, Chief Financial Officer Sajid Yousuf Bhat and Executive Engineer Zahoor Dar, are reportedly being thoroughly investigated by the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB).
According to credible ACB sources, the inquiry has turned up a number of dubious financial transactions involving the accounts of the officials who were arrested’s families and acquaintances.
“The transaction trail points to a wider network of people profiting from these unethical activities,” they stated.
Investigators are looking into the reasons and orders behind some spending decisions as part of their investigation into the misappropriation of public monies. One area of controversy is contracts given out under the pretense of “beautifying” Srinagar city; insiders claim that some of these projects were either needless or badly done.
One important area that is being examined is contracts given out for Srinagar beautification projects. Roads were blocked as a result of various initiatives, according to sources, which infuriated the public and caused trouble. Large quantities of money were spent before the designs that were put into place were later changed in a number of cases after locals complained.
“These so-called beautification projects seem to have been a front for embezzlement,” a source within the ACB stated, adding that the investigation seeks to determine the officials’ roles and the beneficiaries of these contracts. As investigators delve deeper into the case, they have identified additional individuals potentially linked to the corruption scandal. These individuals, some of whom are believed to be relatives or close associates of the arrested officials, are suspected of receiving public funds through fraudulent means. Sources added that a thorough and unbiased investigation is underway, with further arrests anticipated as new evidence comes to light.