Ranchi: The Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) has formally made IAS officer Vinay Kumar Chaubey (1999 batch) an accused in the ongoing Hazaribag land scam case. Mr Chaubey, who is currently lodged in Birsa Munda Central Jail on charges related to a separate liquor scam, appeared before the special ACB court in Hazaribag via video-conferencing on Wednesday, where he was taken into custody for the land scam case.
Background of the Land Scam Case
The Hazaribag land scam involves the irregular conversion and allocation of 2.75 acres of Khasmahal land to private individuals. This unauthorized transfer allegedly took place during the tenure of Vinay Chaubey as the Deputy Commissioner of Hazaribag. The land in question was reportedly reclassified to change its nature, facilitating its allocation to non-government entities.
ACB’s Investigation and Charges
The Anti-Corruption Bureau had registered a case naming seven individuals implicated in the land scam. Vinay Chaubey’s involvement surfaced during the investigation, leading to his addition as an accused. The ACB has intensified its probe following earlier arrests in related cases, including the liquor scam.
Current Status of Vinay Chaubey
Vinay Chaubey was arrested earlier on May 20 in connection with the Jharkhand liquor scam, where he remains in custody at Birsa Munda Central Jail. His recent appearance before the court was made through video conferencing due to his incarceration. The court proceedings are ongoing as the ACB builds its case against all accused individuals.
