A major scandal has surfaced in Chhattisgarh’s Surguja district, where government officials are under investigation for their alleged involvement in the unlawful procurement of machinery at exorbitant prices. Following the RTI activist Dr D K Soni’s disclosure, the Surguja Divisional Commissioner has ordered a thorough investigation into the matter. The complaint specifically highlights the procurement of baling machines, shredding machines and weighing machines, which are crucial for plastic waste management in gram panchayats. Talking to ‘The Hitavada’, Dr Soni revealed that these machines were purchased for gram panchayats at prices that were “over three times the actual market value.” He noted that the actual cost of the machines, inclusive of taxes, should not have exceeded Rs 3.6 lakh. However, the machinery was reportedly procured at Rs 16 lakh per unit. Dr Soni’s complaint, submitted to the Surguja Divisional Commissioner, alleges that the machines were delivered to the gram panchayats without any formal demand, violating established procurement norms.

 

“The machines were supplied by a Korba-based supplier, and the entire process bypassed the necessary approval procedures,” he said. Furthermore, Dr Soni claimed that certain gram panchayats were forced to make payments under duress, while others are currently under pressure to release the funds. The Surguja Divisional Commissioner, after reviewing the complaint, has instructed the District Collector to conduct a thorough probe into the procurement process. “The Commissioner has directed that the investigation be completed and a detailed report be submitted within 15 days,” Dr Soni added. This inquiry will examine the involvement of key officials, including the Chief Executive Officers of janpad panchayats, who are alleged to have played a significant role in facilitating these transactions. It has also been alleged that officials from the Swachh Bharat Mission were complicit in the scheme, particularly in approving the inflated costs for these machines. Dr Soni also pointed out irregularities in the procurement process itself, stating that the work order for the machinery was placed late at night through the Gem Portal, violating procurement guidelines. “It was clear that no prior consent or demand was made by the gram panchayats, yet the supplier was able to secure the order with the help of district officials,” he noted.