The Mukhiya Mahasangh of Bihar has accused former Principal Secretary of Energy, Mr. Sanjeev Hans (1997-batch IAS officer), of installing poor-quality Chinese solar lights in panchayats, leading to a massive financial scam. The federation has called for a high-level inquiry into the matter.
Also Read: ED Arrests Two More in Connection with IAS Officer Sanjeev Hans’ Money Laundering Case
According to Mr. Mithilesh Kumar Rai, the state president of Mukhiya Mahasangh, substandard solar lights were installed in panchayats with the alleged connivance of the implementing agency, BREDA. These solar lights, which are priced around Rs 17,000 in the market, were reportedly sold to panchayats for Rs 30,500, suggesting a scam worth crores of rupees.
The federation claims that BREDA bypassed regulations to install these low-quality lights and that Mr. Hans failed to investigate the matter, enabling the scam. Mr. Rai further pointed out that the solar lights lacked essential components such as a logo or warranty papers, with only a sticker present. He also stated that these lights were being forcibly installed, with attempts being made to extort payments.
Mr. Rai added that these solar lights, which are available for Rs 17,500 in the market, were being installed at inflated prices ranging from Rs 30,000 to Rs 33,000. Despite the government being aware of the discrepancies, these overcharged installations continued.
The Mukhiya Mahasangh has raised concerns about the quality of the lights and alleged violations of government guidelines during Mr. Hans’ tenure. Notably, Mr. Hans is already facing investigations by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) and Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI).
The federation has demanded a thorough investigation to ensure accountability and prevent the misuse of public funds in the future.
