Respond to notice in 3 days: Vigilance dept to ex-DJB CEO in 15th-century structure demolition case

The Indian Express had reported last month about the show-cause notice to Rai, a 2007-batch IAS officer of AGMUT cadre, and others, for allegedly demolishing a monument dating back to 1418 and building a government accommodation in its place to move in as the then CEO of DJB. In the notice, the Vigilance department had said, “The Mahal of Pathan period was allegedly demolished as per directions of Udit Prakash Rai, CEO (DJB) with help of DJB engineers.” The notice said Rai was responsible for “demolition of part of the entire structure…”, adding he was “well aware of the fact that there exists a historical monument.”

According to sources, Rai had to submit his response by May 15 but he neither inspected files and records nor tendered a response. “The other five officials are yet to furnish replies but it has been noted that they have availed opportunity of inspecting the record. But Rai paid no heed to the multiple notices to him,” said a source.

Sources said that apart from direct notice issued to him, Vigilance department, on April 28 and May 2, sent show-cause notice to Chief Secretary, Mizoram, where Rai is currently posted, with the request that the same be served to him. “Multiple notices have been issued and it was mentioned that he may inspect the record…, and submit reply in two weeks. But so far, no response has been received,” said another source. If Rai does not respond to the latest notice, the Vigilance department will go on with its investigation as per law on the basis of material available on record, said a highly placed source.

Rai did not respond to calls and messages.