East Godavari:
In a strong move against corruption, East Godavari District Collector & District Magistrate Smt. P. Prashanthi has taken stringent action against revenue officials involved in a ₹14 lakh bribery case.
The case involves a retired army employee from whom officials allegedly collected ₹14 lakh in bribes by falsely showing ownership of non-existent land. Based on this complaint, the Collector suspended Gopalapuram Mandal Election DT, currently on deputation in Kovvur Re-Survey, Deputy Tahsildar S. Krishna, pending inquiry.
Furthermore, disciplinary proceedings have been initiated against two Village Revenue Assistants (VRAs) — G. Manohar (Karagapadu) and P. Nani (Gopalapuram). Gopalapuram Tahsildar has been instructed to take necessary action.
The complaint from the ex-serviceman led the Collector to order a detailed probe by Special Deputy Collector (KRR C) K. Bhaskar Reddy. The investigation revealed unauthorized changes in revenue records and the issuance of a fake Pattadar Passbook. The report clearly established that these acts were deliberate and involved gross misconduct.
Collector P. Prashanthi emphasized that negligence of duty, corruption, and manipulation of public records will not be tolerated under any circumstances. She reiterated her commitment to upholding transparency and protecting public interest by ensuring strict enforcement of disciplinary measures without bias.
This decisive action sends a clear message that corruption and malpractice in the revenue department will be dealt with firmly, safeguarding the rights of the people and the integrity of the administration.
