Patna, May 30 (IANS) In a major administrative action, the Bihar government on Saturday suspended two Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officers following investigations by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) and the Special Vigilance Unit (SVU) into allegations of tender manipulation, corruption, and money laundering linked to contractor Rishu Shree.

The officers against whom action has been taken are Yogesh Kumar Sagar, a 2017-batch IAS officer currently serving as Director of the Social Welfare Department, and Abhilasha Kumari Sharma, a 2014-batch IAS officer serving as Director of the Jeevika project.

Both officers have been placed under suspension pending further proceedings.

The action follows developments in the ongoing investigation into contractor Rishu Shree, whose arrest and subsequent questioning reportedly revealed details of an extensive network involving alleged irregularities in the awarding of government contracts.

According to sources associated with the investigation, allegations of collusion, tender manipulation, and financial misconduct surfaced during questioning by enforcement agencies.

Based on the material collected during the probe, the state government initiated disciplinary proceedings against the two officers.

The General Administration Department has officially confirmed the suspension of both IAS officers.

Investigators claim that information provided during the ED’s inquiry indicated that Rishu Shree was allegedly able to build a substantial network of influence through the support and cooperation of certain government officials.

The probe is examining allegations that expensive gifts, luxury hospitality, and foreign travel arrangements were provided to individuals connected to the officers under scrutiny.

The ED is also investigating documents related to overseas travel, real-estate transactions, and assets reportedly worth several crores of rupees.

Officials are examining whether these transactions have any connection to alleged irregularities in government tenders and financial dealings linked to the contractor.

Sources indicate that multiple financial records, property-related documents, and other materials have been brought under scrutiny as part of the wider investigation.

The case has generated significant attention within administrative and political circles in Bihar, as enforcement agencies continue to expand their inquiry into the alleged network surrounding the contractor.

Officials have said that the investigation remains ongoing and that further action, if warranted, will be taken based on evidence collected during the course of the probe.

–IANS

ajk/khz