Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has taken swift and decisive action in an alleged corruption case involving the Home Guards and Civil Defence Department. Acting on preliminary findings related to irregularities in the procurement of uniform materials, the Chief Minister ordered the immediate suspension of Amitabh Srivastava, who was serving as Director of Home Guards at the Deputy Commandant level.
According to official sources, the suspension follows serious concerns over procedural lapses and possible financial misconduct in the purchase of uniforms meant for Home Guards personnel. The alleged irregularities reportedly involve violations of established procurement norms, raising questions about transparency and accountability within the department.
Alongside the suspension, Chief Minister Dhami has directed the formation of a Joint Inquiry Committee to conduct a comprehensive and impartial investigation into the matter. The committee will examine the entire procurement process, including tender approvals, pricing mechanisms, and adherence to financial rules. It has also been tasked with assessing whether the state exchequer suffered any losses due to the alleged misconduct.
Government officials indicated that the inquiry would be thorough and time-bound. The investigation will not only focus on individual responsibility but will also review whether systemic shortcomings contributed to the irregularities. Based on the committee’s findings, further disciplinary or legal action may be initiated.
The move reflects the Uttarakhand government’s firm stance against corruption. Chief Minister Dhami has repeatedly emphasized a zero-tolerance policy toward misuse of authority, and several actions in recent years have underscored this commitment to clean governance. Senior officials stated that no officer, regardless of rank or position, would be shielded if found guilty of wrongdoing.
The Home Guards and Civil Defence Department plays a critical role in disaster management, emergency response, and supporting law enforcement across the state. Authorities have assured that the suspension will not disrupt departmental operations and that alternative administrative arrangements will be put in place to ensure continuity of services.
The development has generated significant attention in political and administrative circles. While opposition leaders have called for complete transparency in the probe, supporters of the government have described the action as a strong message reinforcing accountability within the bureaucracy.
Once the Joint Inquiry Committee submits its report, the state government is expected to take further decisions based on its conclusions. These may include stricter disciplinary measures, criminal proceedings if warranted, and possible reforms in procurement policies to prevent similar incidents in the future. The case is likely to remain under close public scrutiny as the investigation progresses.