Delhi LG Orders FIR Against IAS Officer for Corruption

Delhi Lieutenant Governor V K Saxena has directed registration of an FIR against an IAS officer and recommended disciplinary action against him for allegedly pressuring his subordinate to collect money from liquor vendors in 2015-16.

New Delhi, January 19: In a significant development, Delhi Lieutenant Governor V K Saxena has directed the registration of a First Information Report (FIR) against an Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer, Amarnath Talwade, for allegedly pressuring his subordinate to collect money from liquor vendors during his tenure as the senior general manager of the Delhi State Civil Supplies Corporation (DSCSC) in 2015-16.

Audio Recording Confirms Complicity

The decision to file an FIR comes after a thorough investigation and verification process. An audio recording of Talwade's conversation with his subordinate, obtained during the investigation, has been authenticated as genuine and undoctored by the Forensics Science Laboratory (FLS). This audio clip serves as crucial evidence of Talwade's involvement in the alleged corruption.

Disciplinary Action Recommended

In addition to ordering the registration of an FIR, LG Saxena has also recommended disciplinary action against Talwade to the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA). Talwade, who is currently posted in Arunachal Pradesh, has denied the allegations, terming them baseless and without any truth.

Complaint Triggers Investigation

The investigation into Talwade's alleged misconduct was initiated following a complaint filed by a Noida resident on March 21, 2023. The complaint, along with a pen drive containing the audio clip, was submitted to the Directorate of Vigilance. A preliminary inquiry by the Directorate established the identities of the two officers involved in the conversation.

Authentication of Audio Clip

The audio clip, as per the officials, was sent to the FSL by the Directorate of Vigilance on the direction of the Chief Secretary. The FSL's analysis confirmed the authenticity of the recording, establishing that it had not been tampered with or altered.

Transcript Reveals Admission of Bribery

A transcript of the audio clip revealed that Talwade had admitted to receiving Rs 5 lakh from his subordinate. This admission further strengthens the case against him and provides concrete evidence of his involvement in corrupt practices.

Legal Opinion Supports FIR

The matter was subsequently referred to the Delhi government's Law Department, which opined that the information provided in the complaint was sufficient to warrant the registration of an FIR. The Law Department's opinion was based on the fact that the information was not vague or lacking in essential details and pertained to the commission of a cognizable offense.

LG Expresses Displeasure Over Delay

The Directorate of Vigilance's proposal for registering an FIR with the Anti-Corruption Branch (ACB) and initiating disciplinary action against Talwade was submitted to the LG for approval. While granting his approval, LG Saxena expressed displeasure over the delay in taking action in the matter, despite the availability of clinching evidence in the form of the audio clip.

The registration of an FIR against Talwade and the recommendation for disciplinary action underscore the commitment of the Delhi government to combat corruption and ensure accountability among public servants. The prompt action taken by LG Saxena sends a strong message that any instances of misconduct or abuse of power will not be tolerated and will be dealt with swiftly and decisively.