Bhopal, MP: IAS officer Dr. Nagarjuna B. Gowda, a 2019 batch MP-cadre officer currently serving as CEO of Khandwa District Panchayat, has found himself at the centre of a controversy over a significant reduction in a mining fine during his tenure as ADM in Harda district. He has now responded through a prestigious media organization, denied all allegations, and explained what exactly happened in the case.
The case, originally flagged by RTI activist Anand Jat, alleges that Gowda reduced a ₹51 crore illegal mining penalty imposed on Path India Company to a mere ₹4,032 — a decision now being widely questioned and trolled on social media.
Who is Dr. Nagarjuna B. Gowda?
Dr. Gowda is a 2019 batch IAS officer from MP cadre, well-known for his social media presence, motivational speeches, and authored books. A medical doctor by education, he is married to IAS officer Srushti Deshmukh, also from the 2019 batch.
Both officers are prominent among UPSC aspirants and civil services circles, often praised for their transparency and engagement with youth.
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Background: ₹51 Crore Fine Reduced to ₹4,000
The issue dates back to the Indore–Betul National Highway project, where Path India Company was reportedly involved in unauthorised excavation of 3.11 lakh cubic meters of gravel in Andherikheda village without valid permission. A notice for a fine of ₹51.67 crore was issued by the then ADM Praveen Phoolpagar.
However, following Phoolpagar’s transfer, Dr. Nagarjuna B. Gowda took over as ADM, and the penalty was drastically reduced. According to official documents, the revised estimate found that the company had excavated only 2,688 cubic meters, resulting in a minimal fine of ₹4,032.
RTI Activist Alleges Irregularities and Favouritism
Anand Jat, an RTI activist from Harda, brought the issue to light, claiming a cover-up and possible favoritism towards the company. He made public RTI documents and alleged that although the official justification claimed no video or photographic evidence existed, villagers reportedly possess such material.
Jat also hinted at a “deal” behind the fine reduction and criticized the lack of action or review despite public knowledge of the excavation.
IAS Nagarjuna B. Gowda Responds: ‘No Evidence, Everything Legal’
In a statement to a media outlet, Dr. Gowda firmly denied any wrongdoing, saying the decision was based entirely on available documents and court proceedings.
“The fine was not imposed by the previous ADM but only a notice was issued. Hearing was the final phase when I assumed office. I formed a committee to reach to find out veracity of the allegations. The committee report fine that the Tehsildar’s report was procedurally weak, the panchnama was unsubstantiated, and there was no concrete proof of mining,” he said.
IAS Gowda added that no appeals were filed in the two years following the decision, reinforcing his belief that the order was legally sound.
Social Media Reaction & Next Steps
The case has stirred widespread discussion on social media, with many questioning the role of bureaucracy in safeguarding public resources. No formal inquiry has been announced yet, but public pressure is mounting, and activists are demanding a re-investigation into the matter.
As of now, Dr. Gowda maintains that all actions were in line with procedure, and he is prepared to cooperate with any review process, should one be initiated.
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