A major financial irregularity has come to light in the Ujjain Municipal Corporation, where a “spot fine” system meant to enforce cleanliness norms has allegedly been misused, leading to a possible revenue scam. According to an audit report for the financial year 2023–24, more than 20 receipt books issued to 18 employees have gone missing, with no record of fines collected or deposited with the civic body. How the ‘spot fine’ system works Municipal teams conduct surprise inspections across the city to maintain sanitation standards, checking construction sites, hospitals, hotels, and malls. If violations are found—such as debris on roads or improper waste disposal—fines ranging from ₹500 to ₹1 lakh are imposed on the spot. The amount is collected immediately, and a receipt is issued. As per rules, the collected amount must be deposited in the municipal treasury within 24 hours, and a complete record of receipt books must be submitted annually to the store department. Audit flags missing records The audit revealed that the receipt books issued under this system were never returned. These books were distributed among 18 employees, but there is no record of: The audit department has sought clarification from the municipal corporation, asking for details of receipts issued and funds collected. However, officials have yet to respond. Receipt books issued to multiple employees The missing receipt books were issued to Natthulal Teji, Himesh Makwana, Avantialal Chauhan, Mukesh Bhati, Vikas Shinde, Manoj Gausar, Bandhan Bali, Abdul Hamid, Umesh Sarwan, Vijay Bali, Anil Ghavari, Ajay Davre, Balaram, Narendra Ghavari, Sabir Hussain, Manish Pandey, Harish Bolege, and Hukumsingh. According to the audit report, these receipt books were linked to categories such as solid waste management, general receipts, vehicle parking, and water tax. Officials avoid comment Officials associated with the audit appeared reluctant to speak on record. Audit officer M.S. Patel initially denied the existence of such a report but later acknowledged the issue after being shown documents. However, he refused to comment on camera. Senior auditor Santosh Dangi also confirmed that the objection was part of the report but declined to speak publicly. Opposition alleges corruption Leader of Opposition Ravi Rai termed the issue “outright corruption,” alleging that money collected from citizens in the name of fines was never deposited in the municipal corporation’s accounts. Mayor, Commissioner order probe Mayor Mukesh Tatwal said the audit objections are serious and has directed the Municipal Commissioner to investigate the matter. Municipal Commissioner Abhilash Mishra stated that the report is being examined and receipt books are being reconciled. He added that strict action will be taken against those responsible if irregularities are confirmed. Post navigation Infosys engineer killed on flat booking day:Crushed by car in Indore; husband reveals hiding incident from children Man stabbed dead after addressing accused as ‘son’ during dispute:Had gone to drop off employees; attacked while trying to defuse row
