RTI activist seeks probe into alleged sand scam

Allegations of large-scale corruption in the transportation of sand and gravel, using vehicles like scooters, motorcycles and cars, have surfaced in Sirmaur. The accusations, which hint at a potential scam exceeding Rs 50 lakh, were brought to light by RTI activist Krishna Dutt Sharma from Redli panchayat during a press conference in Nahan.

Sharma revealed that he has submitted a formal complaint to the Vigilance Department, seeking a thorough investigation into irregularities in developmental works carried out in Redli and Dana Gram Panchayats. Based on information obtained under the Right to Information (RTI) Act, Sharma alleged significant discrepancies in the procurement and transportation of construction materials such as sand and gravel.

According to Sharma, the same company supplied construction materials, including sand and gravel, to both panchayats, and identical M-forms (a mandatory document for transportation of mining material) were used in the process. He further alleged that the transport bills issued by the company mentioned vehicle numbers belonging to scooters, motorcycles, cars, JCBs and small utility vehicles, which were shown to be used for transporting sand and gravel.

“This raises serious doubts about the authenticity of the transportation records. It is evident that fraudulent practices were employed on a large scale,” said Sharma, as he shared a list of vehicle numbers obtained through RTI documents with the media.

Sharma also highlighted that despite his multiple complaints to concerned authorities, no action has been taken so far. He alleged that attempts are being made to suppress the issue and false atrocity charges have been filed against him to intimidate and silence him.

Calling for intervention at the highest level, Sharma urged Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu to order an impartial investigation into the matter. He emphasised the need for transparency and accountability to restore public trust in the functioning of local governance.

The allegations have brought renewed attention to corruption in rural development projects, particularly in the procurement and transportation of construction materials. If substantiated, the scam could have far-reaching implications, not only for the implicated panchayats but also for the state’s oversight mechanisms.