Nalgonda: ACB’s surprise inspection at ALO, Kodad, reveals poor record maintenance, pendency of 1,593 welfare applications
ACB officials also detected one suspicious application related to a board-approved natural death claim of a worker in 2024
By - Newsmeter Network
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Nalgonda: A surprise inspection by the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) at the Assistant Labour Office (ALO), Kodad, in Suryapet district has revealed serious administrative irregularities, including unauthorised staff absence, poor record maintenance, and the pendency of 1,593 welfare applications, directly affecting beneficiaries.
ACB surprise check
The inspection was carried out by the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB), Nalgonda Unit, on January 24. It was a part of the drive to ensure transparency and accountability in government offices. During the check, officials scrutinised files, registers, and application records maintained at the Assistant Labour Office (ALO), Kodad.
Unauthorised absence of staff
ACB officials found that K. Tulasiram, Junior Assistant working in the ALO office, was unauthorisedly absent from duty at the time of inspection. The lapse was recorded as a violation of service rules.
Large-scale pendency of applications
The inspection revealed that 1,593 applications were pending disposal in the office. Of these, 430 applications were incomplete and were kept pending without issuing any intimation or clarification notices to the applicants or beneficiaries.
Welfare benefits affected
The pending applications pertain to fresh registrations, renewals after completion of five years, marriage and maternity benefits for daughters of registered workers involving an assistance amount of Rs 30,000, and death claims, Rs 1 lakh for natural death and Rs 6 lakh for accidental death.
Suspicious death claim
ACB officials also detected one suspicious application related to a board-approved natural death claim of a worker in 2024. The claim has been flagged for further verification.
Improper maintenance of records
The inspection brought to light improper maintenance of records and application files, indicating deficiencies in office administration and monitoring mechanisms.
Adverse impact on beneficiaries
According to ACB officials, prolonged pendency and irregular handling of applications have adversely affected beneficiaries, particularly workers and their families who depend on the timely release of welfare benefits.
Action to be recommended
The ACB stated that a detailed report on the findings would be submitted to the government, recommending necessary disciplinary and administrative action against the officials concerned.
Public urged to report bribe demands
The ACB appealed to the public to report any demand for bribes by public servants by calling the toll-free number 1064. Complaints can also be lodged through WhatsApp (9440446106) and social media platforms. The identity of complainants will be kept confidential.
