Officials in Ranga Reddy District are being investigated for alleged embezzlement and large-scale land purchases involving prominent figures from the previous government. The controversy revolves around unauthorized land acquisitions and irregularities in transactions, with family members and relatives allegedly acquiring extensive land under anonymous names.
The recent change in government has led to the uncovering of these officials’ wrongdoings, causing concern among the public. The scandal also involves foreign companies that claimed to be investing in industrial projects and promising employment opportunities. It is alleged that top officials in relevant departments were aware of the details of land allotments to these companies and facilitated the placement of their proxies in lucrative positions.
Former officials, including HMDA project director Sivabalakrishna and former HMDA Commissioner Arvind Kumar, have been accused of involvement in large-scale land acquisitions. Sivabalakrishna’s arrest for accumulating assets beyond known sources of income has further raised suspicions. Social activists and ruling party leaders have called for investigations by the Income Tax and Anti-Corruption Bureau.
The unfolding scandal has implicated not only former ministers and MLAs but also high-ranking officials in the IAS and IPS. The areas at the center of the controversy include Yacharam, Kadtal, Moinabad, Shankarpally, Shabad, Shamshabad, and Maheswaram. This has caused tension among officers from departments such as HMDA, District Revenue, and Police.
In anticipation of investigations by the IT and ACB, officials are taking precautions to protect their assets and documents. This includes transferring valuables to distant relatives, benami entities, and friends. The unfolding scandal has created apprehension among those implicated in the wrongdoing.
