Former Dehra MLA Booked for Alleged Misuse of Discretionary Funds
The Himachal Pradesh State Vigilance and Anti-Corruption Bureau (SV&ACB) has registered a case against former Independent MLA from Dehra, Hoshyar Singh Chambyal, for alleged misappropriation of government funds under the MLA Discretionary Grant Scheme. The case pertains to his tenure between 2023 and 2024.
The FIR was filed on July 17 at a police station in Dharamshala under Sections 409 (criminal breach of trust) and 420 (cheating) of the Indian Penal Code. According to a senior bureau officer, the action followed a preliminary inquiry into a complaint lodged by employees of a company owned by Chambyal. Some of these employees were also listed as beneficiaries under the grant scheme.
The MLA Discretionary Grant Scheme allows elected representatives to recommend development works or provide financial assistance to individuals in their constituencies. The alleged misuse involves funds allocated under this scheme.
Investigations are ongoing to determine the exact amount misappropriated and the modus operandi. The SV&ACB has not yet made any arrests but has issued notices to the accused for questioning.
This case highlights the scrutiny faced by public representatives regarding the proper utilisation of discretionary funds. The bureau urges citizens to report any instances of corruption to ensure accountability.
