Srinagar, 29-12-2023: In adherence to the government’s policy of zero tolerance for corrupt practices, the Jammu and Kashmir Forest Department has taken decisive action against corrupt activities within its ranks. Mushtaq Ahmad Sofi, the In-charge Range Officer at Khuihama Range in the Bandipora Forest Division, has been placed under suspension following his involvement in corrupt practices, as revealed during a red-handed catch by the Anti-Corruption Bureau on Thursday.
According to an official spokesperson of the department, the suspension comes in response to Sofi’s illicit financial transactions with a contractor responsible for executing departmental works. Acting promptly upon receiving a report from the Anti-Corruption Bureau, the Forest Department took immediate action by suspending the Range Officer, and initiating an inquiry as per the Conduct, Discipline, and Appeal Rules (CSR).
The spokesperson emphasized the department’s commitment to enhancing accountability, transparency, and efficiency. To achieve these goals, the Forest Department has introduced an e-tendering system for executing various works, including plantation projects. This move not only aims to curb corrupt practices but also streamlines the process of awarding contracts.
Additionally, the Forest Department has embraced online modes of operation to promote e-governance and reduce manual handling of public grievances. This shift is particularly evident in services involving public interaction, such as the distribution of timber from timber sale depots, booking of forest rest houses for eco-tourists, online issuance of transit permits for timber transportation, and providing certificates for forest and non-forest land to the public. The department has also streamlined processes related to the registration of Wood Based Industries.
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