Andhra Pradesh CM Jagan asks for toll-free numbers in every department

On Thursday, 19 August 2021, Andhra Pradesh CM YS Jagan Mohan Reddy announced the commencement of toll-free numbers in every department of the State Government to curb corruption. He directed the concerned officials to make necessary arrangements at every level, so people could call and complain about corruption. 

The announcement was made in light of the fake challan scam that had erupted last week. It may be recalled that some officials of the AP Revenue Department had sold fake challans and stamp papers at sub-registrar offices in several districts of the state. Fake challans were used in nine districts across the state to create fake documents, so as to escape payment of tax to the Stamps and Registration Department. 

Following a review meeting at his Tadepalli camp office in Andhra Pradesh, CM Jagan advised officials to take necessary steps to improve the existing revenue sources. He also asked the officials to collect the pending arrears to the state exchequer. 

He further instructed them to ensure that the revenue generated through GST also increases along with other revenue resources. In order to do so, the Chief Minister directed the District Collectors and the Judicial Committees to take responsibility to bring in innovative measures. He further appealed to the officials to take the necessary precautions to curb corruption at all levels in the State Government in order to avoid scams such as the fake challan scam. 

Coming to the fake challan scam in AP, the State Government has placed six sub-registrar officers under suspension. 10 criminal cases were booked on them in connection with the misuse of 5 crore stamp paper and challan. The government has recovered 1.4 crores so far and a departmental inquiry is still ongoing.