Corruption Scandal Rocks Mughal Road Project: Ex-Chief Engineer Under Investigation

The Jammu and Kashmir Anti-Corruption Bureau has registered a case against former chief engineer Raman Puri and Hindustan Construction Company for allegedly causing financial loss to the government. The investigation reveals collusion leading to undue financial benefits for the company, including avoiding significant penalties.

The Jammu and Kashmir Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) has filed charges under the Prevention of Corruption Act against former chief engineer Raman Puri and Hindustan Construction Company. They are accused of significant financial misconduct surrounding the Mughal Road project, which resulted in substantial government losses.

The project, valued at over Rs 214 crore, was intended to establish a road between Bufliaz and Shopian-Pulwama. It faced multiple deadline extensions and eventual arbitration, following initial mismanagement that included signing questionable agreements and sidestepping official procedures.

Raman Puri and representatives of Hindustan Construction Company are believed to have unlawfully benefited from these actions, avoiding Rs 54 crore in penalties and securing arbitration awards of Rs 21.52 crore and Rs 11.27 crore. The investigation is ongoing, according to the ACB.

(With inputs from agencies.)