Assam: Alleged unauthorized personnel operates in Dhubri Forest Division violating Official Secrets Act

An unauthorized individual has been purportedly operating as a de facto official within the Dhubri Forest Division office, raising serious concerns about a potential breach of the Official Secrets Act of 1923.

The individual in question has been accused of handling confidential documents and acting as a broker within the premises, sharing a workspace with senior assistant Khandakar Nur Mohammad Ali. The Official Secrets Act of 1923, a cornerstone of India's anti-espionage legislation strictly prohibits unauthorized access to government sites and handling of official secrets both within and outside designated areas.

Former Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) Priyasa Saikia, who held the position from January 1 to June 1, 2023, is alleged to have retained this non-official personnel to manage crucial documentation tasks. Speaking with India Today NE, Khandakar confirmed Saikia's involvement in this irregular appointment.

"I raised concerns with the current DFO regarding the unofficial personnel working beside me. The response was shocking - he works for the government, not for me," stated Khandakar Nur Mohammad Ali.

The revelation has sparked rumors suggesting that Khandakar might have hired the non-official staff for personal gain. Allegations of illicit money collection in exchange for various favors have surfaced against Khandakar, who purportedly entrusts the non-official personnel with handling all official files and documents.

Despite the gravity of these allegations, top officials at Aranya Bhawan, the administrative headquarters, have remained notably silent on the matter, prompting questions about the nature of Khandakar Nur Mohammad Ali's prolonged tenure—21 years—in the face of mounting obstacles.