Serious Corruption Allegations Against Lahar SDOP; Former Minister Writes to CM

Grave Accusations Against Lahar SDOP

Praveen Tripathi, the Sub-Divisional Officer of Police (SDOP) posted in the Lahar subdivision of Bhind district, Madhya Pradesh, is facing extremely serious allegations of corruption, illegal extortion, and abuse of power. These accusations have prompted a formal complaint to the state's Chief Minister.

Former Minister Demands Inquiry

Dr. Govind Singh, a former minister in the Madhya Pradesh government and former Leader of the Opposition, has written to Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav. In his letter, he has demanded an impartial investigation into the matter and immediate stringent action against the accused officer.

Allegations of Monthly Extortion

Details circulating on social media and in the letter sent to the Chief Minister allege that SDOP Praveen Tripathi has been pressuring station in-charges and other police personnel within the Lahar subdivision to pay large sums of money monthly. Citing a social media post by Constable Alok Singh Rathore from the Mihona police station, it is reported that demands range from ₹25,000 to ₹1,00,000 per month.

UPI Transactions Fuel Controversy

The controversy intensified with the emergence of screenshots of bank transactions (UPI) that have gone viral on social media. According to the allegations, these online transactions, purportedly made through the bank account of a clerk at the Mihona police station, show substantial transfers of ₹20,000 and ₹50,000. The public release of this digital evidence has caused a stir within the police department and lent credence to the accusations.

Links to Sand Mafia Also Alleged

In his letter, former minister Dr. Govind Singh also noted that SDOP Praveen Tripathi has been posted in Lahar for over two years. He is also accused of colluding with the region's sand mafia during this period, facilitating illegal sand mining and transportation. Furthermore, he is alleged to be continuously pressuring his subordinates for illegal collections.

Demand for SIT Investigation and Suspension

Considering the sensitivity and gravity of the matter, Dr. Govind Singh has appealed to Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav for immediate intervention. He has demanded the formation of a Special Investigation Team (SIT) headed by a senior IPS or administrative officer to conduct a fair inquiry. Additionally, he has requested the immediate suspension of the concerned SDOP through administrative action pending the completion of the investigation. The demand also includes the strictest punitive action against the officer as per law if found guilty.