ACB Uncovers Crores in Illegal Assets of Andhra Welfare Officer in Srikakulam
In a significant crackdown on corruption, the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) officials in Visakhapatnam have unearthed illegal assets worth crores allegedly belonging to Gaddi Bala Mukunda Rao, an assistant backward classes welfare officer serving in Narasampeta and Sompeta areas of Srikakulam district. The operation, conducted on Monday, has revealed a substantial discrepancy between documented and market values of the seized properties.
Tip-Off Leads to Initial Cash Seizure
Acting on a specific tip-off that Rao was allegedly collecting kickbacks of Rs 15 per student from hostel welfare officers under his jurisdiction, ACB officials initiated an investigation. This led to the initial seizure of Rs 1.84 lakh in cash from Rao and his office attendant, Gudla Ramakrishna. Following this discovery, the ACB officials in Srikakulam formally registered a case and proceeded with comprehensive searches at Rao's residence located in DCCB Colony, Chapuram.
Extensive Assets Uncovered in Searches
The searches conducted by the ACB team disclosed a wide array of assets acquired by the accused officer. The list of seized items includes:
- Four immovable properties, including a building in Srikakulam town
- 322 grams of gold ornaments
- 1.75 kilograms of silver ornaments
- Additional cash amounts
- One car and two bikes
- Various household articles and other valuables
According to official documents, the total value of these seized assets is estimated at approximately Rs. 1.1 crore. However, investigators have indicated that the market value of these illegal assets exceeds Rs. 10 crore, highlighting a significant undervaluation in official records.
Ongoing Investigation and Implications
The Anti-Corruption Bureau has emphasized that further investigation into this case is actively ongoing. The discovery of such substantial assets allegedly acquired through corrupt practices raises serious questions about the integrity of welfare operations in the region. This case underscores the ACB's commitment to tackling corruption at various levels of administration, particularly in departments handling public welfare funds.
The involvement of an officer responsible for backward classes welfare adds a layer of concern, as it potentially indicates misuse of resources intended for marginalized communities. Authorities are expected to expand their investigation to determine the full extent of the alleged corruption and identify any accomplices or beneficiaries of these illegal activities.
