Lucknow: The long-pending investigation into the high-profile ₹1,400-crore memorial construction scam, which spans Lucknow and several other districts of Uttar Pradesh, has gained significant momentum after nearly 11 years. The probe, being conducted on the basis of a Vigilance FIR registered in 2014, is now reportedly nearing a decisive phase, with strong indications of action against former senior officials of the Lucknow Development Authority (LDA).
According to sources, the role of the then Superintending Engineer and Chief Engineer of LDA has been found suspicious during the investigation. Following this development, investigating agencies are preparing for direct legal action against the concerned officers.
Serious Financial Irregularities Uncovered
Investigators have found that large-scale financial irregularities were committed during the construction of memorials, allegedly by bypassing established rules and standards. The probe has highlighted serious lapses, including lack of transparency in the tendering process, poor quality of construction work, and irregularities in payments made to contractors.
Officials familiar with the investigation said that after years of stagnation, agencies are now conducting a fresh and detailed review of old records and documents. As part of this process, the accountability of officers associated with the projects is being closely examined.
Chargesheet Likely Soon
Sources indicated that a chargesheet may be filed in the coming days, which could significantly escalate legal troubles for officials allegedly involved in the scam. The renewed pace of the investigation suggests a strong push towards fixing responsibility and initiating punitive action.
Case Regains Attention After Years
The memorial scam had once sparked widespread debate in political and administrative circles across the state. With the investigation now back in focus after more than a decade, expectations have risen that those responsible will finally be brought to justice.
