SVC asks VO to expedite investigation in all cases

Excelsior Correspondent
SRINAGAR, Nov 25: The State Vigilance Commission (SVC) has asked the officers of Vigilance Organization (VO) to expedite the investigation in all registered cases and enquiries.
The directions were issued at a meeting of the full bench of the Commission, held here under the chair of Chief Vigilance Commissioner, Kuldeep Khoda.
The Chief Vigilance Commissioner said that smooth flow of information is imperative for early conclusion of corruption related cases and asked the officers of the Organization to ensure that all evidences are collected speedily and prosecution of cases is pursued in the Court of law to ensure conviction of offenders.  He said the investigation officers should be proactive, in such cases, where information is not furnished within a reasonable time frame, adding that the officer should seek assistance from higher ups of the departments and utilize all powers provided to them under CrPC where they are facing difficulties in getting the requisite information in time.
While reviewing the progress in investigation of cases  registered by Kashmir wing of the Vigilance Organization,  it transpired that in case  FIR No 14 of 2016, prima facie  established that Ishrat Islam, an Inspector of Lakes and Waterways Development Authority (LAWDA), by abusing his official position and after obtaining  permission for construction of a garage, instead built a  two storey house, servant quarter and garage at Gupt Ganga in Nishat, Srinagar in a LAWDA prohibited construction zone and raised all the structures in violation of  approved building permissions with the active support and connivance of some LAWDA officials.
The Commissions and Omissions on the part of the Inspector and other involved officials of LAWDA need thorough probe and involved officials need to be identified for severe action under relevant law, the Commission observed.
Among others, Vigilance Commissioners, Dr R K Jearath, Gous-ul-Nisa Jeelani, besides other senior officers from SVC and Vigilance Organization were present in the review meeting.