The Allahabad High Court has removed the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Sanjeev Saran and the Chairman Rakesh Bahadur IAS from their positions at the Noida Authority. Both officials have been directed to surrender their positions.
CBI to investigate into Noida Authority Case. (Image source)
Mr. Sanjeev Saran and Mr. Rakesh Bahadur were appointed before the Samajwadi Party came to power in Uttar Pradesh. Mr. Bahadur previously served as the chairman of Greater Noida and Yamuna Expressway Authorities.
Allegations of Land Allotment Scam
The duo was accused of allotting lands to influential real estate developers at lower prices, causing a loss of Rs. 4,700 crore to the state government. Nearly 14 plots of real estate land were allegedly allocated at comparatively lower prices.
Legal Challenges and High Court Judgment
An Allahabad-based NGO called Madhav Samaj Samiti filed a case challenging their appointments in the High Court. Adv. Renu Singh also approached the High Court demanding their removal, strengthening the NGO’s petition. The Samiti argued that due to their high positions, they could influence the investigating team and possibly damage existing evidence.
Mrs. Singh disclosed that she was offered money to withdraw her petition and expressed fear for her safety. She plans to move to the Supreme Court, demanding a CBI probe into all real estate land deals since 1991.
Impact on Akhilesh Yadav Government
The Akhilesh Yadav-led Samajwadi Party government, which had appointed them, now faces severe criticism. The appointment has turned out to be a major setback for the government. The two officials' irregularities in handling real estate land caused a significant loss to the government. The state government has been asked to transfer them immediately and not appoint them anywhere in western Uttar Pradesh.
Close Associates and CBI Investigation
Both officials are reportedly close associates of Ram Gopal Yadav, the uncle of Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav. The Allahabad High Court has given the CBI six months to investigate and submit a report. The court also stated that if more time is required, the investigating agency can request an extension.
Concerns About Real Estate Sharks
Noida is one of the hot spots for real estate and should not fall into the hands of corrupt developers. Real estate builders are often prone to giving bribes to get their deals approved. Appointing such individuals as heads of Noida can further damage the state’s economy.