Top bureaucrats suspended in Jharkhand  liquor scam

THE JHARKHAND STORY NETWORK

Ranchi, May 29: In a major development linked to an alleged ₹38 crore liquor scam, the Jharkhand government has suspended IAS officer Vinay Chaubey and Joint Excise Commissioner Gajendra Singh. The suspension order, issued by the Department of Personnel, takes effect from May 20—the day both officials were arrested by the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB).

Details of the Allegations

According to ACB officials, both officers are accused of misusing their official positions and causing significant financial losses to the state exchequer. Preliminary findings suggest irregularities in the management of excise operations, prompting a wider probe into the state’s liquor distribution and licensing system.

Arrest and Legal Action

Chaubey and Singh were taken into custody on May 20 and subsequently sent to judicial custody. As per government service rules, any official held in custody for over 48 hours is liable to be suspended from service, a provision invoked in this case.

What Happens Next

The suspension paves the way for a deeper investigation, which could potentially implicate more officials. The state government has remained tight-lipped about further disciplinary actions but has indicated that the matter is being treated with utmost seriousness.

Broader Implications

This case highlights persistent challenges in the excise sector, long seen as vulnerable to corruption due to high revenue stakes. Analysts suggest the incident could trigger administrative reforms and tighter oversight of excise operations.