Assam: Rs 10 lakh property tax irregularity, Sribhumi civic body takes tough stand

The Sribhumi Municipal Board has adopted a stringent approach against two of its employees accused of involvement in an alleged large-scale financial irregularity linked to property tax collection. In a recent board meeting, the municipality resolved to move the court seeking the attachment and seizure of the salaries and personal properties of the accused officials to facilitate recovery of misappropriated public funds.

The two employees, identified as Arindam Das and Rahul Chakraborty, are alleged to have orchestrated a significant financial scam under the guise of collecting property tax on behalf of the municipality. Following the detection of irregularities, the municipal authorities had earlier lodged a formal complaint against them.

The case has gained further attention after Arindam Das was reportedly detained by the police but subsequently released under unexplained circumstances, drawing sharp criticism and concern from the municipal leadership. Municipal Chairperson Rabindra Dev expressed strong dissatisfaction over the development, calling for greater transparency and accountability in the investigation.

At present, both Arindam Das and Rahul Chakraborty are reportedly absconding. Addressing a press conference, Chairperson Rabindra Dev revealed that financial discrepancies amounting to nearly ₹10 lakh have been identified so far. He stated that the board has unanimously decided to approach the court to attach the accused employees’ salaries and personal assets, with the aim of recovering the embezzled amount and ensuring that public money is returned to the people.

The municipal authorities have also urged the law enforcement agencies to expedite the investigation and take necessary steps to trace the absconding accused, stressing that strict action is essential to restore public trust in the civic administration.