The ₹300 crore corruption scandal involving Saurabh Sharma, a constable at the Regional Transport Office (RTO) in Bhopal, has deepened with shocking revelations of assets amassed through illegal activities. Enforcement agencies have recovered 52 kg of gold, 234 kg of silver, and 10 crores of cash from a vehicle linked to Sharma, alongside other properties and investments.
The investigation has unearthed the following assets, revealing the massive scale of Sharma’s illicit wealth:
- Gold and Silver Hoard: Authorities seized 52 kg of gold and 234 kg of silver from a Parked vehicle belonging to Mr Sharma.
- 10 Crores in Cash: Bundles of cash worth 10 crores were recovered alongside the gold and silver, believed to be proceeds from illegal collections at toll barriers and check posts.
- Real Estate:
- Kothi in Bhopal: A lavish bungalow equipped with luxury amenities, including a home theater, swimming pool, and imported furniture.
- Properties in Noida: Multiple high-value apartments and commercial properties in the National Capital Region (NCR), bought under false names.
- School Building in Madhya Pradesh: A sprawling educational institution constructed on prime land, now suspected to have been financed with black money.
- Vehicles and Land: High-end cars and agricultural plots in several districts of Madhya Pradesh.
Political Reactions
The scandal has provoked strong reactions from political leaders, with sharp criticisms and conflicting statements:
Digvijay Singh, Senior Congress Leader
Veteran Congress leader Digvijay Singh slammed the ruling BJP government for enabling corruption at such a massive scale.
“This is a clear case of institutionalized corruption. How could a constable amass such wealth without the complicity of higher-ups in the system? The BJP government must answer. Their promises of zero tolerance for corruption are hollow,” Singh said.
He also demanded an independent probe by a central agency and hinted at the possibility of political protection shielding Sharma.
Mohan Yadav, Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh
“This is an unprecedented betrayal of public trust. We will ensure that every individual connected to this corruption ring is brought to justice, no matter how powerful they are. This government stands firm against corruption,” Yadav said.
He also emphasized the need for systemic reforms and promised to digitize toll and tax collections to prevent similar incidents in the future and ordered closure of Nakas.
The scandal has triggered widespread outrage among citizens and political observers, with questions raised about the administrative oversight that allowed such massive corruption to flourish. Social media platforms are flooded with demands for stricter vigilance and accountability in public offices.
Investigative agencies are focusing on uncovering Sharma’s broader network, including potential links to senior officials and politicians. His luxurious lifestyle and extensive wealth have drawn suspicion that he did not act alone. A detailed forensic audit of his transactions and properties is underway.
As the investigation unfolds, this case is likely to remain at the centre of Madhya Pradesh’s political and social discourse, serving as a stark reminder of the urgent need for anti-corruption measures and administrative reforms.
