SRINAGAR: The Jammu and Kashmir Government has ordered a fresh inquiry into the alleged unauthorised procurement of equipment by the then Executive Engineer of the Public Works (Roads and Buildings) Division, Budgam, replacing an earlier inquiry committee and directing the new panel to submit its report within 21 days.
According to an order issued by the Public Works (R and B) Department, the newly constituted Inquiry Committee supersedes the panel constituted under Government Order No. 245-PW(R and B) of 2024 dated August 14, 2024.
The decision follows advice received from the Finance Department through a communication dated July 6, 2026. The matter is also linked to contempt proceedings in CCP No. 207/2022 arising out of WP(C) No. 1192/2021, titled M/s New BT Enterprises vs Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir and Others.
The committee has been tasked with examining allegations that equipment was procured without sanctioned budgetary provisions, approval from the competent authority or adherence to prescribed financial and procurement rules.
As part of the inquiry, the panel will examine official records, verify the circumstances surrounding the purchases and identify officers responsible on the basis of documentary evidence. It will also determine whether statutory procedures, financial norms and codal provisions governing government procurement were violated.
The government has directed the committee to submit a comprehensive report containing its findings and recommendations within 21 days of the issuance of the order.
The order further states that any subsequent transfer or change in the posting of officers nominated to the committee will not relieve them of their responsibilities, ensuring that the inquiry continues without interruption.
The fresh probe is intended to establish accountability and determine whether disciplinary or other administrative action is warranted in connection with the alleged procurement irregularities in the Budgam R and B Division.
