Congress Leader Alleges Organized Extortion Racket in Vidarbha RTO System
Senior Congress leader Vijay Wadettiwar has made explosive allegations regarding corruption within the Regional Transport Office system in Vidarbha, claiming the existence of a well-organized extortion racket that involves both retired and serving officials. Addressing the media in Nagpur on Thursday, Wadettiwar asserted that this network systematically extracts money from truck operators, vehicle owners, and transporters, with even a senior Anti-Corruption Bureau officer allegedly participating in the illegal activities.
Allegations of Systemic Corruption and Illegal Collections
Wadettiwar specifically named retired deputy RTO officers and Akola RTO officers as key figures in this alleged racket. According to his claims, overloaded vehicles are routinely permitted to operate after payments are made through intermediaries, bypassing legal enforcement. The Congress legislative party leader emphasized that this is not merely isolated corruption but a structured system that undermines regulatory mechanisms.
He further alleged that an additional Superintendent of Police-rank ACB officer has been protecting the racket by alerting those involved ahead of trap operations. "If someone refuses to pay, a trap is organized. But if money is paid, the same people are alerted in advance and saved," Wadettiwar stated, highlighting what he described as a blatant abuse of power.
Claims of Fabricated Traps and Administrative Manipulation
Questioning the integrity of recent enforcement actions, Wadettiwar pointed to a trap conducted on March 23, which he labeled as fabricated. He alleged that this action was based on a false complaint from a truck driver who had not even traveled on the route where the alleged demand was made. According to him, such tactics are used to target officials who resist illegal collections, thereby silencing dissent within the department.
The allegations extend beyond mere financial extortion to include administrative control. Wadettiwar claimed that the network influences postings and promotions, particularly of officers from Vidarbha, and is used to pressure those unwilling to cooperate. "This is not just about corruption. It is about controlling the entire RTO enforcement system and threatening officers who refuse to fall in line," he asserted, painting a picture of widespread institutional manipulation.
Evidence and Calls for Independent Inquiry
In support of his claims, Wadettiwar revealed that his office has obtained audio recordings and video clips that allegedly show officials issuing threats to inspectors. These materials, he said, provide concrete evidence of the coercive tactics employed by the racket. He has called for an independent, high-level inquiry into the matter to ensure transparency and accountability.
The Congress leader's allegations have sparked concerns about the effectiveness of anti-corruption measures in the region. With the ACB officer in question reportedly posted in the bureau for nearly a decade, questions are being raised about the longevity and depth of this alleged network. Wadettiwar's claims suggest a systemic failure that allows illegal practices to continue unchecked, calling into question the enforcement mechanisms designed to prevent such abuses.
