Former IAS RK Verma in Trouble After ACB Receives Green Light to Prosecute in Corruption Case

New Delhi: The Central Government’s Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT) has granted approval to the Anti-Corruption Branch (ACB) to prosecute RK Verma, a retired Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer, in connection with a Rs 100 crore transport scam. The allegations stem from his tenure as Secretary-cum-Commissioner in the Transport Department when Delhi’s government procured inspection and certification lanes for passenger vehicles.

Background of the Case
RK Verma, a 1984-batch IAS officer, held a pivotal role in the Delhi government’s Transport Department during 2007-08. The department, under his supervision, acquired three inspection and certification lanes from a US-based company for the purpose of inspecting passenger vehicles. However, instead of adhering to the recommendations of the Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI), the Transport Department allegedly handed over the operation and maintenance of these lanes to an Indian company with a similar name, raising serious concerns over the integrity of the procurement process.

Details of the Allegations
The DoPT’s investigation revealed that the department did not appoint a station manager to oversee the equipment, which violated a cabinet decision. Furthermore, it is alleged that the Indian company was misrepresented as the rightful proprietor and was given orders to install additional lanes. A supplementary agreement was also signed with this company to increase fees for certain tests, even though the necessary equipment was not installed.

Sufficient Evidence for Prosecution
After thoroughly examining the relevant records, documents, and reports, the competent authority concluded that there is sufficient evidence to establish a prima facie case against RK Verma. The evidence suggests significant lapses and potential misconduct in the handling of the transport department’s projects. As a result, the DoPT granted sanction under Section 19 of the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988, allowing ACB to proceed with prosecution.

RK Verma’s Position
RK Verma, who voluntarily retired from service in 2014, could not be reached for a comment regarding the allegations. The approval from the Central Government marks a significant development in the ongoing investigation, signaling a move towards accountability and transparency in public administration.

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