Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma has adopted a firm stance. On allegations of corruption in MLA Local Area Development (LAD) funds. Following a sting operation conducted by a prominent newspaper that exposed alleged corruption involving three MLAs, the Chief Minister has taken immediate and decisive action. Terming the matter as extremely serious and concerning, CM Sharma has made it clear that his government adheres to a 'zero tolerance' policy against corruption and that no individual, regardless of their influence, will be spared if found guilty, while this strong message underscores the government's commitment to transparency and accountability in public service.
Chief Minister's Firm Stance on Corruption
Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma articulated his government's position on the entire matter through the social media platform 'X'. He stated that the news published in a leading newspaper today regarding corruption in MLA funds is an extremely serious and concerning issue. He emphasized that his government's policy on corruption by any public servant is one of complete 'zero tolerance'. This statement indicates that the government won't tolerate any attempt to misuse public funds and is committed to ensuring transparency and accountability. The Chief Minister's resolute determination is seen as a significant step towards establishing good governance in the state.
Formation of a High-Level Inquiry Committee
To ensure a thorough investigation into this serious matter, Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma has constituted a high-level inquiry committee. This committee will be led by the Chief Vigilance Commissioner (Additional Chief Secretary, Home Department). The primary task of this committee is to conduct a detailed investigation into the corruption allegations that emerged from the sting operation and identify the culprits. The committee has also been instructed to ensure that the investigation is fair and transparent, so that the truth can come to light. The formation of this high-level committee demonstrates the seriousness with which the government is treating this issue and its determination to eradicate corruption at its roots.
Freezing of MLA LAD Accounts
Alongside the formation of the inquiry committee, the Chief Minister has taken another crucial step. The MLA LAD (Local Area Development) accounts of the constituencies whose legislators are facing corruption allegations have been frozen with immediate effect, while this measure has been taken to ensure that no further misuse of these funds occurs until the investigation is complete and to safeguard potential evidence of corruption. The decision to freeze the accounts is viewed as a preventive measure that will help deter any such misconduct in the future and ensure the security of public funds. This action further reinforces the government's anti-corruption commitment.
Legislators Named in the Sting Operation
The sting operation conducted by the newspaper brought to light the names of three legislators from Rajasthan, who are accused of large-scale corruption in MLA funds. These legislators include BJP MLA Revantram Danga, Congress MLA Anita. Jatav from Hindaun, and Independent MLA Ritu Banawat from Bayana (Bharatpur). The sting operation allegedly exposed irregularities and methods of corruption associated with these MLAs, causing a stir in the state's political landscape. The revelation of these names has intensified political activity and sparked widespread public discussion on the issue.
BJP MLA Revantram Danga's Denial
Following his naming in the sting operation, BJP MLA Revantram Danga has outright rejected the allegations. He termed the sting as 'baseless, false, and factless'. Danga, in his response, stated that the person had approached him four times before and also a few days prior, while he mentioned that the individual repeatedly discussed approvals, but he had explicitly refused him. Danga also clarified that approvals are issued based on the demands of villagers and after. Consulting with local representatives and villagers at the ground level, in accordance with their requirements. His statement is an attempt to clarify his position contrary to the allegations.
Congress's Action Against MLA Anita Jatav
Meanwhile, after the sting video of Congress MLA Anita Jatav from Hindaun went viral, the Congress party also took immediate action. The party has issued a show-cause notice to Anita Jatav, demanding a response within seven days. The Congress has made it clear that if a satisfactory response isn't received within seven days, the party will take further disciplinary action against her. This step indicates that political parties are also taking corruption allegations against their members seriously and are prepared to take necessary steps to maintain their image. This development highlights the growing demand for transparency and accountability in the state's politics.
Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma's swift and stringent action sends a strong message against corruption in Rajasthan. The high-level investigation and the decision to freeze accounts will ensure that the matter is thoroughly probed and strict action is taken against those found guilty. This incident once again underscores the importance of political integrity and honesty in public life in the state.
