During his time in opposition, YS Jagan made accusations against the government regarding land scams in Visakhapatnam, promising to bring an end to the alleged corruption. A grand dharna, called ‘Save Visakha’, was organized on June 22, 2017, in Visakhapatnam.
However, two days before the dharna, the Telugu Desam government established a Special Investigation Team (SIT) on June 20, 2017, led by Senior IPS Vineet Brijlal, to investigate the land scams and allegations in Visakhapatnam, which date back to before the partition of the state.
The SIT submitted its report in 2018, based on which a three-member committee headed by Manmohan Singh recommended a thorough investigation into all land scams by the Crime Investigation Department (CID).
The committee also suggested the establishment of special courts to try these cases, suspension of officials found guilty, and an investigation by the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB).
However, after coming to power, the Jagan government did not order investigations by the CID and ACB into the Visakhapatnam land scams, despite the previous reports received during the Telugu Desam Party’s regime. Instead, another SIT was formed in October 2019, led by retired IAS Vijay Kumar, which submitted its report in September 2021.
Interestingly, the previous SIT had recommended a thorough inquiry into the role of YCP leader Dharmana Prasada Rao, who is currently serving as the revenue minister. Numerous complaints were also filed against former minister Ganta Srinivasa Rao and other leaders from Visakhapatnam.
However, it is reported that the recent SIT report did not mention them or the charges leveled against them. This raises questions about the actions taken by the Jagan government in investigating the alleged land scams and holding those responsible accountable.
The omission of certain individuals from the SIT report has drawn criticism and sparked concerns about transparency and fairness in the investigation process.
