Operation 'Vanaraksha' Uncovers Forest Department Corruption in Kerala

The Vigilance and Anti-Corruption Bureau (VACB) in Kerala has exposed widespread corruption and irregularities following a state-wide inspection across 71 Forest Range Offices. The operation, named 'Vanaraksha,' was initiated to address alleged misconduct in contract awards and executions, particularly in construction, tribal settlement development, and solar fencing projects.

Key findings revealed that officials engaged in accepting commissions and using corrupt methods, such as online transactions and benami contracts, to carry out projects. A substantial amount of Rs 1,07,94,000 was traced to bank accounts linked to officials, while unaccounted cash of Rs 11,500 was seized during the inspection, according to VACB officials.

Manoj Abraham, Director of Vigilance, stated that strict legal actions would be pursued against those involved, emphasizing ongoing inspections and detailed examinations of records from the past five years. The investigations include scrutinizing the bank account statements of officials and contractors involved in the corrupt practices.

(With inputs from agencies.)