Gorakhpur | An assistant accountant posted in Gorakhpur Pratham Khand was dismissed a day before his retirement after being found guilty of embezzling funds collected from electricity consumers. The action was taken by the Managing Director of Purvanchal Vidyut Vitaran Nigam. Eshpal Singh, whose retirement was scheduled for December 31, 2025, was removed from service on December 30 and fined Rs 11,06,457.
The embezzlement is alleged to have occurred during Singh’s posting as assistant accountant in Bagpat between February 2016 and May 2018. During this period, he reportedly collaborated with Babu Suresh to siphon off Rs 1,69,52,473 from online billing operations. Additionally, 25 receipt books were not returned. The investigation into the case was conducted by Chief Engineer Ashutosh Srivastava, who submitted a detailed report to the MD, confirming the irregularities.
Earlier Dismissal and Court Intervention
Eshpal Singh had previously been dismissed in 2023, but he challenged the decision in court. In 2024, the court granted him temporary relief and ordered a reinvestigation. During this period, he was posted in Gorakhpur Pratham Khand. The reinvestigation confirmed the allegations. According to the report submitted to the MD, all evidence of embezzlement was documented, forming the basis for the final dismissal.
Fine Imposed Along With Dismissal
The MD’s order specified that along with dismissal, Singh would also be liable to pay a fine of Rs 11,06,457, calculated as part of the embezzled funds. The action underscores the corporation’s zero-tolerance approach toward corruption and financial irregularities among its employees.
The order noted that Singh’s tenure in Bagpat from February 27, 2016, to May 29, 2018, involved systematic misappropriation of consumer funds, and such cases are closely monitored by the corporation.
Objective: Maintain Public Trust and Financial Discipline
Chief Engineer Ashutosh Srivastava commented on the action, stating:
“The investigation provided clear evidence of embezzlement. The MD acted on this report to ensure strict accountability. The corporation’s objective is to maintain consumer trust and uphold financial discipline.”
The decision reflects the corporation’s commitment to transparency and integrity in handling public funds. By taking decisive action against employees involved in fraud, the management aims to send a strong message that financial misconduct will not be tolerated under any circumstances.
Implications and Learnings
This case highlights several key points for public sector employees and corporate governance:
- Embezzlement of public funds can result in dismissal and financial penalties, even before formal retirement.
- Reinforced investigation and evidence-based action are critical for accountability.
- Temporary legal relief or court intervention does not prevent final disciplinary action if misconduct is substantiated.
- Organizations need to maintain strict oversight of employee actions to preserve consumer confidence and institutional credibility.
The corporation continues to monitor similar cases closely and is expected to take swift action in instances of financial irregularities to prevent misuse of public resources.
This case also serves as a reminder for employees that financial integrity and transparency are non-negotiable standards in public service.
