Reaffirming its stated zero-tolerance policy against corruption, the Rajasthan government led by Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma has put on hold the customised investment package granted to M/s Goyal Fashions Private Limited, an official statement said on Monday, November 2.
Source: ANI via Daily Prabhat
The benefits, approved under the Rajasthan Investment Promotion Scheme (RIPS), have been suspended pending a preliminary inquiry by the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB), according to officials.
Source: ANI via Indian Economic Observer
According to officials, the action was taken after the matter was brought to the notice of Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma. Following his intervention, the State Level Scrutiny Committee of the Department of Industries and Commerce reviewed the matter and ordered a stay on the package.
Source: ANI via Daily Prabhat
The Commissioner of Industries and Commerce subsequently issued formal orders directing that the disbursement of sanctioned benefits, incentives and exemptions to the company be stayed until the conclusion of the ACB's preliminary proceedings.
Source: ANI via Indian Economic Observer
The hold is the latest step in a case that became public last week. The state government earlier authorised an ACB inquiry, under Section 17A of the Prevention of Corruption Act, into allegations that former Additional Chief Secretary (Industries) Shikhar Agrawal misused his official position to extend undue benefits to Goyal Fashions, the company that operates resorts under the Ananta brand, and that he and his family purchased villas and cottages at its resorts in Udaipur and Alwar. Agrawal was placed on awaiting posting orders on October 28. These are allegations under inquiry; they have not been established by any court.
Source: Nation Press