Agra: Allegations of corruption and financial irregularities in the city’s Jal Kal Department have escalated sharply, with the Municipal Commissioner recommending stringent disciplinary action against General Manager Arunendra Kumar Rajput.
A detailed inquiry report has pointed to large-scale misuse of public funds across multiple operational areas, including pipeline repairs, new installations, procurement processes and staff appointments, raising serious concerns over governance, transparency and accountability within the department.
Given the seriousness of the matter, the Municipal Commissioner had earlier, on February 2, recommended freezing the financial powers of the General Manager. Subsequently, on April 19, a comprehensive investigation report was submitted to the Directorate of Urban Local Bodies, documenting several instances of alleged misconduct. Officials consider the report a crucial document that substantiates long-standing complaints regarding irregularities in the department’s functioning.
Inquiry Findings
A high-level inquiry committee was constituted to examine the allegations. The panel was chaired by Additional Municipal Commissioner Shishir Kumar and included senior finance and audit officials. During the investigation, the committee reportedly sought relevant files and documents on multiple occasions. However, the report states that the required cooperation was not provided. It alleges that key documents were withheld and that the General Manager did not appear before the panel, actions viewed as violations of administrative discipline.
One of the most serious findings relates to procurement irregularities. According to the report, purchases were carried out at internally fixed rates instead of through transparent and competitive processes, resulting in an estimated loss of more than ₹4 crore. Additionally, projects linked to rainwater harvesting reportedly involved irregularities worth around ₹2.5 crore. The inquiry also highlights discrepancies in the purchase of sluice valves valued at approximately ₹80 lakh from firms based in Lucknow.
Financial Lapses
The report further points to a pattern of splitting payments to avoid scrutiny. In one instance, valves worth nearly ₹40 lakh were allegedly procured on a single day, but payments were processed through multiple smaller files of ₹5 lakh each. Investigators suspect that this method was deliberately used to bypass higher-level approvals and financial oversight mechanisms. Moreover, payments amounting to nearly ₹1 crore were reportedly made for pipeline repair works without any physical verification or supporting evidence, intensifying suspicions of financial mismanagement.
Serious concerns have also been raised regarding recruitment and promotions within the department. The inquiry found that certain recruitment files were missing, even though the employees concerned continue to hold their positions. Appointments made under the compassionate quota, along with subsequent promotions, have been questioned. In another instance highlighting administrative lapses, a retired assistant engineer has reportedly been waiting for pension and pending dues for nearly 18 years, reflecting deep-rooted inefficiencies in the system.
Response and Next Steps
Responding to the allegations, General Manager Arunendra Kumar Rajput has denied all charges, calling the complaints baseless and the inquiry one-sided. He has stated that he fully cooperated with the investigation and never refused to provide documents. He also claimed that the committee prepared its report without adequately considering his response.
The administration has now initiated the process for further action at the government level. Officials indicate that strict measures may follow after a detailed review of the findings. The case has not only put the functioning of the Jal Kal Department under intense scrutiny but has also exposed the urgent need for stronger oversight mechanisms and transparent procedures in public works.
The controversy has triggered widespread public concern in the city, with citizens increasingly questioning accountability in civic bodies. The developments underline the importance of institutional checks, timely audits and robust governance practices to safeguard public funds and restore public trust.
About the author – Ayesha Aayat is a law student and contributor covering cybercrime, online frauds, and digital safety concerns. Her writing aims to raise awareness about evolving cyber threats and legal responses.
