In a strong move against corruption, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has suspended two Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officers and one Provincial Civil Service (PCS) officer in connection with the Haridwar land scam, marking a significant step toward administrative reform in the state.
The announcement, made by the Chief Minister’s Office (CMO), revealed that a total of 12 officers have been suspended, and departmental inquiries will be initiated against those involved.
Senior Officers Named in Haridwar Land Scam
The officials suspended include:
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Karmendra Singh, a 2009-batch IAS officer and serving District Magistrate
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Varun Chaudhary, a 2017-batch IAS officer and former Municipal Commissioner
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Ajayveer Singh, Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM)
The case pertains to widespread irregularities in land allocation and transfers in Haridwar, raising serious concerns about governance and accountability. The swift disciplinary action has been widely seen as a move to restore transparency and integrity in public administration.
Focus Intensifies on Anti-Corruption Measures
This follows CM Dhami’s May 25 directive urging officials to ramp up anti-corruption efforts, particularly targeting illegal land conversions. Departments were instructed to submit detailed reports on ongoing investigations, with a clear mandate to take immediate punitive action upon discovering credible evidence of misconduct.
Stringent Checks on Document Issuance and Encroachment
The Chief Minister also emphasized the need for rigorous verification processes before issuing Aadhaar and other official documents, to prevent misuse. He reiterated the state’s commitment to eliminating property encroachments and instructed officials to ensure that cleared land is not re-occupied. A special review of enemy property encroachment is underway, with a comprehensive report expected.
Broader Governance and Security Agenda
In a recent review meeting, CM Dhami laid out broader development priorities — advocating for the employment of local workers in government construction projects and calling for architectural designs that reflect Uttarakhand’s cultural heritage and traditional hill architecture. Additionally, he ordered enhanced security along border areas and the launch of intensified inspection drives to safeguard public safety.
This crackdown signals a renewed commitment by the state government to root out corruption, uphold public trust, and enforce greater accountability across all levels of administration.
