Rajasthan government orders probe into IAS officer and IPS wife
The Anti-Corruption Bureau is investigating Shikhar Agrawal and Prashakha Mathur over the alleged purchase of 40 luxury properties.
The Rajasthan government has approved an investigation by the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) into senior IAS officer Shikhar Agrawal and his wife, IPS officer Prashakha Mathur, according to reports by The Indian Express, The Hindu and Outlook.
The probe follows allegations that Agrawal colluded with a private firm, Goyal Fashions Private Limited, to confer undue benefits. These alleged favours include relaxations in resort construction conditions, approvals without verifying certificates and special concessional financial packages.
Investigators are examining the purchase of 20 cottages in Bujhda, Udaipur, and 20 villas in Ajabgarh, Alwar, reportedly worth Rs 6.16 crore. The properties were allegedly purchased at prices substantially below market value, with Bujhda cottages at Rs 15 lakh each and Ajabgarh villas between Rs 15 lakh and Rs 16.5 lakh.
The properties were registered in the names of Agrawal, Mathur, their two sons, and Mathur's parents. The ACB is also looking into whether the properties were leased back to the company under agreements guaranteeing an annual rental income of Rs 1.80 crore.
Agrawal, who held various roles including Additional Chief Secretary, Industries, has been placed on Awaiting Posting Order. Mathur, who served as Additional Director General, has also been placed on Awaiting Posting Order.
Former Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot has demanded investigations by central agencies, describing the allegations as a major scandal.