Raipur: In a significant development with major administrative implications, the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) has ordered an inquiry against Sanjay Shukla, an ex-IFS officer of 1987 batch and Chairman of the Chhattisgarh Real Estate Regulatory Authority.
The matter has been referred to the Department of Personnel and Training and the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs for detailed examination, triggering heightened activity within administrative circles.
Dual-Level Investigation Initiated
Following PMO directives, the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs has asked the Urban Administration Department of the Chhattisgarh Government to conduct a thorough investigation and take appropriate action.
The order mandates that:
- The case be comprehensively investigated
- Necessary action be taken based on findings
- The complainant be informed of the outcome
With this, the case has entered a dual-layer probe involving both central and state authorities.
CBI Chargesheet Adds to Controversy
The development follows a chargesheet filed by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) in an alleged bribery case linked to Rawatpura Medical College.
Shukla has been named as an accused in the case, which reportedly involves irregularities in approvals and recognition processes. Despite this, no official action has yet been taken regarding his position as RERA Chairman, raising questions on accountability.
Complaint Triggers PMO Intervention
The Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) stepped in following a complaint by BJP leader Naresh Chandra Gupta, which alleges that the official amassed assets worth over ₹300 crore, engaged in corruption and financial irregularities, misused administrative machinery, and attempted to influence judicial processes. The complaint also claims the individual enjoyed high-level protection and that several earlier complaints had failed to prompt any meaningful action.
Role of Other Officials Under Scanner
The complaint reportedly also mentions Vivek Dhand, a former Chief Secretary and the first Chairman of Chhattisgarh RERA, alleging that he extended protection to Shukla. These claims are expected to be examined during the investigation.
Profile of Sanjay Shukla
Sanjay Shukla is a 1987-batch Indian Forest Service (IFS) officer of the Chhattisgarh cadre and a former Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (PCCF).
Key Positions Held:
- Head of Forest Force (HoFF), Chhattisgarh
- Managing Director, Chhattisgarh State Minor Forest Produce Federation
- Principal Secretary in the state government
- Commissioner, Chhattisgarh Housing Board
He was appointed Chairman of Chhattisgarh RERA on April 21, 2023, after taking voluntary retirement.
Achievements and Recognition
Under his leadership, the state’s Minor Forest Produce Federation received international recognition, including an award at the ESG World Summit in Singapore.
Apart from his administrative career, Shukla is also known as an avid wildlife photographer.
Past and Ongoing Investigations
The case is currently under investigation by multiple agencies, including the CBI and state authorities. Officials have clarified that no court has established guilt so far, and the matter remains under examination.
A Test Case for Accountability
With the involvement of central agencies and the PMO, the case is being seen as a test of transparency and accountability in public institutions, particularly in regulatory bodies like RERA.
The outcome of the investigation is expected to have broader implications for post-retirement appointments and governance standards in India.
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