Forest Conservator Faces Scrutiny Over Financial Misconduct

The Uttarakhand government has launched an inquiry into Forest Conservator Vinay Kumar Bhargava, issuing a show cause notice regarding significant financial irregularities during his post as the divisional forest officer (DFO) in Pithoragarh.

Key allegations involve unapproved construction projects and contracts awarded without standard tender processes in the Munsyari range, potentially violating public accountability norms. Bhargava is also implicated in unilateral financial decisions, including an MoU with a local committee and erroneously exaggerated maintenance expenses.

Issued by Principal Secretary Forest Ramesh Kumar Sudhanshu, the notice demands Bhargava's response within 15 days to avert further legal repercussions, signaling administrative scrutiny of forest management practices.

(With inputs from agencies.)