The Supreme Court has settled the case related to the alleged misuse of Compensatory Afforestation Fund Management and Planning Authority (CAMPA) funds by the Uttarakhand government.
A bench led by Justice Suryakant ordered the closure after hearing arguments from the Uttarakhand Chief Secretary.
The Chief Secretary submitted an affidavit stating that only 1.8% of the Rs 753.56 crore CAMPA funds were used for non-approved activities.
The state government assured the court that such misuse would not happen again. It also committed to returning the misused amount with interest once the Centre notifies the interest rate.
An investigation has already started against the officials involved.
Slow Investigation Into Corbett Violations
The Supreme Court expressed dissatisfaction over the slow pace of investigation into illegal construction in the Corbett Tiger Reserve.
The court noted that while the state acted against forest rangers, the probe against senior officials remains sluggish.
It directed the state government to complete departmental proceedings against all officials within three months.
CAG Report Reveals Misuse Of CAMPA Funds
According to a Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) report, CAMPA funds meant for afforestation were misused between 2019 and 2022.
The funds were allegedly spent on iPhones, laptops, fridges, office renovations, and even personal expenses.
The report also mentioned that the funds were used for fighting court cases and other unacceptable expenses. Several financial irregularities have come to light in the report.
Also Read: Supreme Court Grants Additional Time To Central Government For Reply In CBI Investigation Case
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