Karauli Municipal Council Faces Probe Over Alleged Forgery in Payment File

Karauli. The Karauli Municipal Council is currently embroiled in a controversy following the discovery of alleged forged signatures and irregularities within a payment file worth approximately 16.48 lakh rupees. The issue came to light when discrepancies were noted in the documentation related to the Rudra Urban Livelihood All-Round Development Cooperative Society Limited. Upon reviewing the file, municipal authorities identified serious concerns regarding the authenticity of signatures attributed to former officials.

Municipal Commissioner Kaluram formally registered a complaint with the local police on September 25, seeking a thorough investigation into the matter. The commissioner emphasized that the integrity of the administrative process had been compromised, prompting immediate legal action. In addition to the police inquiry, the council has established a five-member internal committee tasked with conducting a comprehensive departmental investigation to determine how the irregularities occurred and who might be responsible.

Initial scrutiny of the Integrated Financial Management System (IFMS) vouchers revealed that signatures belonging to former account in-charge Brijbhushan Sharma and former commissioner Narsi Meena appeared suspicious. The complaint also highlights the alleged involvement of assistant accounts officers Mahendra Gayari and Abhishek Singh. It is alleged that fabricated bills and vouchers were prepared, and the original documentation required for verification was withheld from the authorities.

Commissioner Kaluram clarified that the payment for the 16.48 lakh rupee bill was never processed, as the file was rejected once the irregularities were detected. He assured the public that the administration is taking the matter seriously and that the departmental probe will examine every aspect of the file. The commissioner stated that any individual found guilty or complicit in the preparation of these documents will face strict disciplinary action in accordance with established regulations.

As the investigation continues, the focus remains on verifying the authenticity of the signatures and the role of the staff members mentioned in the complaint. The findings of both the police and the internal committee are expected to provide clarity on the extent of the attempted financial irregularity and the accountability of those involved in the administrative lapse.