Rajasthan CM reaffirms zero-tolerance policy on corruption
The state government has suspended benefits for Goyal Fashions Private Limited following allegations against former IAS officer Shikhar Agrawal.
Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma has reiterated a zero-tolerance policy regarding corruption, according to The Hawk and The Shillong Times. The Chief Minister emphasised the need for accountability and transparency in investment promotion and government schemes.
Following an intervention by the Chief Minister, the State-Level Scrutiny Committee of the Industries and Commerce Department has paused a customised package for M/s Goyal Fashions Private Limited. This package was approved under the Rajasthan Investment Promotion Scheme (RIPS).
The company, which operates resorts under the Ananta brand, will not receive any concessions or benefits until a preliminary ACB investigation is finished. The Commissioner of Industries and Commerce has issued orders to this effect.
The investigation involves Shikhar Agrawal, the former Additional Chief Secretary of the Industries Department. It is alleged that Agrawal used his official position to provide unfair advantages to the company in exchange for benefits for himself and his family.
The allegations involve the granting of special concessions, easing construction rules for resorts, and providing approvals without checking mandatory certificates. The ACB is also looking into property deals involving Agrawal and his family members.
Preliminary findings suggest the purchase of several cottages and villas at Ananta resorts in Alwar and Udaipur at prices reportedly lower than market value. The government has approved further investigation under Section 17A of the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988.