The Modern Coach Factory in Raebareli has become the center of a major Railway Recruitment scandal as the Central Vigilance Team begins an in-depth investigation into fraudulent appointments. The probe, which initially targeted the fitter post, has expanded to scrutinize 65 appointment panels from the tenure of suspended Railway Recruitment Board (RRB) Chairman Nuruddin Ansari.
Allegations of irregularities in previous recruitment processes have added another layer of complexity to the case.
Key Developments in the Investigation
1. Suspension and Action Against Key Officials
The Railway Board has suspended RRB Gorakhpur Chairman Nuruddin Ansari and his personal secretary Ram Sajeevan following evidence of fraudulent activities. Further disciplinary actions are underway, including the preparation of a major charge sheet against Ram Sajeevan, which could lead to his dismissal.
2. Fraudulent Family Inclusions in Recruitment Panels
Notable instances of malpractice include:
- Ram Sajeevan’s Son: Saurabh Kumar’s name was illicitly added to the recruitment panel.
- Chandrashekhar Arya: The former Chief Office Superintendent included his son Rahul Pratap’s name fraudulently. Although Arya has received all post-retirement benefits, disciplinary measures such as pension stoppage are being considered.
Expanded Scope of Investigation
1. Previous Complaints Under Review
The Railway Vigilance team has reopened older complaints regarding recruitment for positions such as Assistant Loco Pilot, Technician, and Painter. Allegations include:
- Waiting list candidates being overlooked.
- Selected candidates’ names being manipulated for appointments.
2. Central Vigilance Team’s Efforts
The team, which traveled from Delhi, has seized 280 files as part of the investigation. Local vigilance units have also been activated, with four teams and three inspectors each conducting inquiries into the recruitment of 1,588 posts in 2018.
Implications of the Investigation
The scrutiny aims to restore transparency and accountability within the railway recruitment process. With irregularities spanning multiple panels, the investigation could lead to sweeping reforms and potential legal consequences for those involved.
Ensuring Accountability and Restoring Integrity in Railway Recruitment Processes
The ongoing investigation into alleged irregularities in railway recruitment processes highlights the commitment to ensuring transparency and accountability. With the Central Vigilance team meticulously examining 65 panels and scrutinizing 280 files, authorities aim to uncover discrepancies and rectify past misdeeds.
The involvement of high-ranking officials, including suspended chairman Nuruddin Ansari and his personal secretary, underscores the gravity of the situation. Proactive steps, such as disciplinary actions against those involved and revisiting previous complaints, showcase the railway department’s resolve to restore integrity.
This comprehensive effort serves as a crucial step toward re-establishing trust in the recruitment process and maintaining fairness for deserving candidates.
FAQs
1. What is the main issue in this investigation?
The investigation centers on fraudulent appointments in the Modern Coach Factory, Raebareli, including manipulation of recruitment panels during Nuruddin Ansari’s tenure.
2. Who are the key figures implicated in the case?
The suspended RRB Gorakhpur Chairman Nuruddin Ansari, his secretary Ram Sajeevan, and former Chief Office Superintendent Chandrashekhar Arya are among those facing allegations.
3. What actions are being taken against the culprits?
- Suspension of involved officials.
- Preparation of major charge sheets for dismissal.
- Potential pension stoppage for retired officials implicated in the fraud.
4. How many recruitment panels are under scrutiny?
A total of 65 recruitment panels are being separately investigated for potential irregularities.
5. What documents have been seized by the Central Vigilance Team?
The team has taken 280 files related to the recruitment process for examination.
6. What are the next steps in the investigation?
The vigilance teams will continue to analyze the recruitment procedures from 2018 and investigate all complaints of irregularities in earlier appointments.
7. How are the complaints of past candidates being handled?
Complaints regarding overlooked waiting list candidates and manipulated appointments are now part of the ongoing investigation.