MP Tehsildar gets setback as SC rejects plea:Anticipatory bail dismissed in Sheopur flood scam case, arrest likely

The Supreme Court of India has dismissed the anticipatory bail plea of a tehsildar posted in Vijaypur of Madhya Pradesh, intensifying her legal troubles in the 2021 flood relief scam case. Tehsildar Amita Singh Tomar had approached the apex court after her plea was earlier rejected by the High Court. During the hearing in Court No. 13, the bench observed that there were no substantial grounds to grant relief and dismissed her Special Leave Petition (SLP), along with all pending applications. Arrest likely after Supreme Court verdict Following the court’s decision, the possibility of her arrest has increased significantly. Police and administrative authorities have begun preparations for further action. The case has also triggered concern within the revenue department, as the scam is suspected to involve multiple officials and intermediaries. ₹2.57 crore transferred to fake accounts The incident dates back to 2021, when flood damage was assessed for 794 beneficiaries in Baroda tehsil. During the distribution of relief funds, approximately ₹2.57 crore was allegedly transferred to 127 fake bank accounts. The irregularities were uncovered during an audit, prompting a formal investigation. A deputy collector later named several individuals as accused, and partial recovery of funds was also carried out. Transactions linked to Tehsildar’s family Further investigation by then SDOP Praveen Ashtana revealed involvement of 110 individuals, including 25 patwaris. Amita Singh Tomar, who was serving as tehsildar in Baroda at the time, was also named among the accused. Police investigation reportedly found financial transactions linked to accounts of her family members. Based on the findings, Baroda police registered a case against her under the Prevention of Corruption Act, alleging misuse of official position and irregularities in compensation distribution. Legal experts say surrender is the only option According to High Court advocate V K Sharma, once anticipatory bail is rejected by the Supreme Court, the accused is left with the option of surrendering before the court. After surrender, the accused may apply for regular bail, but as per procedure, they must first go into judicial custody.