Fake GR clears 6.9cr rural works, govt orders probe
The fake GR was issued on Oct 3 last year, days before the model code of conduct came into place on Oct 15 for the Nov assembly polls. It authorised infrastructure works under a budgetary provision for basic amenities to villages based on recommendations by elected representatives. Following this, tenders were floated at the district level and 45 works were approved in Ahilyanagar, Parner, Shrigonda and Nevasa talukas.
"When contractors later approached for payment, officials at Mantralaya reviewed the file and found that no GR had been issued on that date. Payment was immediately stopped and a departmental inquiry ordered," said the official.
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Ahead of the poll code's enforcement, govt had cleared development works worth several thousand crores. "It appears someone exploited this to issue the fake GR. We are ascertaining if such instances took place elsewhere as well," the official said. PTI
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