Hyderabad: The Anti Corruption Bureau (ACB), led by CV Anand, has made significant strides in uncovering corruption within the Hyderabad Metropolitan Development Authority (HMDA), leading to the apprehension of a former director.
As investigations progress, more revelations have emerged, implicating officials from various departments under the Municipal Administration and Urban Development (MA&UD).
Names of high-ranking officials associated with MA&UD have surfaced, with two IAS officers now under scrutiny. The probe indicates that these officers allegedly amassed significant sums, amounting to crores of rupees, through former HMDA director Balakrishna, purportedly in exchange for granting permissions for layouts and buildings.
The arrested official, Siva Balakrishna, allegedly acquired substantial assets through embezzlement, including 214 acres of agricultural lands, 29 open plots, seven flats, and luxurious villas across both Telangana and Andhra Pradesh. The total estimated value of these assets is pegged at Rs 500 crore. However, based on current market rates, the value is speculated to exceed Rs 1,000 crore.
Investigators have uncovered that Balakrishna registered these properties under the names of his family members and relatives, concealing his involvement in the illicit transactions.
The revelations have sent shockwaves through administrative circles, highlighting the pervasive nature of corruption within key government bodies.
