MP Deputy CM Removes OSD Amid Liquor Contract Scandal
Madhya Pradesh Deputy CM Jagdish Devda removes OSD Deepam Raichura and orders an inquiry into alleged irregularities in liquor contracts for 2024-25.
In a swift move to address allegations of corruption, Madhya Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Jagdish Devda has removed his Officer on Special Duty (OSD), Deepam Raichura, from his position. The decision follows serious allegations of irregularities concerning liquor contracts for the 2024-25 fiscal year.
Immediate Inquiry Ordered
The Deputy Chief Minister stated that the matter came to his attention through a newspaper report detailing discrepancies in the distribution and management of liquor contracts. To maintain the integrity of the upcoming investigation, Devda has ordered an immediate and thorough inquiry into the matter.
Addressing the situation, Devda clarified the professional timeline of the official involved. He noted that while Raichura is currently serving as his OSD, the period in question relates to a time when Raichura was posted as an Assistant Excise Officer in Bhopal.
"As soon as the news came to my notice, I directed the concerned department to conduct an immediate inquiry. To ensure an impartial investigation, Deepam Raichura has been relieved of his responsibilities as OSD with immediate effect," the Deputy Chief Minister stated.
Focus on Transparency
The removal of the OSD is being viewed as a strategic step to ensure that the probe remains unbiased. By distancing his office from the individual under scrutiny, Devda aims to demonstrate a commitment to transparency and accountability within the state administration.
CM Mohan Yadav Promotes MP Investment Hub in Mumbai
While the Deputy Chief Minister deals with administrative scrutiny, Chief Minister Mohan Yadav has been actively promoting Madhya Pradesh as a premier destination for global capital. During an interactive session in Mumbai titled ‘Investment Opportunities in Madhya Pradesh,’ the CM highlighted the state's industry-friendly policies.
The Chief Minister's outreach included several key developments:
- Diplomatic Engagement: CM Yadav held a roundtable meeting with Consuls General and diplomatic representatives from Japan, Mexico, Russia, the Republic of Korea, Thailand, Egypt, and South Africa.
- GIS-2027 Invitation: The state has invited these participating nations to join the upcoming Global Investors Summit (GIS-2027) as ‘Partner Countries.’
- Economic Impact: The CM reported that Madhya Pradesh has already received investment proposals valued at approximately Rs 90,000 crore.
- Job Creation: These investments are projected to create employment opportunities for an estimated 14,375 people.
Describing Mumbai as a hub for globally capable investors, the Chief Minister positioned Madhya Pradesh as a "hub of opportunities," emphasizing the state's readiness to facilitate large-scale industrial growth.