SRINAGAR: The Jammu and Kashmir Government has ordered a preliminary inquiry into serious allegations of corruption at the Sher-i-Kashmir International Conference Centre (SKICC), one of the Union Territory’s premier convention facilities located on the banks of Dal Lake in Srinagar.
According to a government order issued recently, Satnam Singh, Director of Finance in the Department of Tourism, has been appointed as the Inquiry Officer to examine the charges and submit a detailed report within three weeks. The inquiry was initiated following a formal communication from the Lieutenant Governor’s Secretariat dated February 27, 2025.
Among the allegations under investigation are the fraudulent appointment and corrupt practices reportedly carried out by one Bilal Ahmad Shah, as well as claims of fraudulent promotion and illegal accumulation of wealth by another official, Gh Rasool Dhobi. The government is also probing the closure of the Recovery Section at SKICC, which is alleged to have been shut down in an attempt to conceal financial irregularities and possible embezzlement.
The Inquiry Officer has been tasked with gathering facts, verifying documents, and recording statements from relevant personnel to ascertain the veracity of the claims. The findings of the probe are expected to shape further administrative or legal action if the allegations are substantiated.
The SKICC, under the administrative control of the Tourism Department, hosts high-profile official events, business summits, and international delegations. Its functioning has come under the scanner in recent years over concerns about irregularities and lack of oversight.
Tourism officials have refrained from public comment until the inquiry is completed. However, sources indicated that the government is treating the matter with seriousness, particularly given the stature of the institution and the sensitivity of the financial charges involved.
The outcome of this probe will be closely watched as it may pave the way for broader audits and administrative restructuring within the institution.
