RES engineer’s audio recording triggers controversy in Mauganj case:Claims paying collector ₹5 lakh could avoid action, says, ‘Money can manage everything’

An alleged audio clip of two Rural Engineering Services (RES) officials from Mauganj has surfaced, triggering controversy after one of them is heard claiming that paying the Collector Rs 5 lakh could have prevented the current situation. The conversation also hints at pressure, irregularities, and discussions on filing reports without proper inquiry. What the viral audio reveals The purported conversation is between Executive Engineer S.B. Rawat and Sub Engineer Praveen Pandey. Key excerpts translated from the audio: It is then that Rawat makes the most controversial remark: I told everyone—meet the Collector and give him some money collected together. You people didn’t bother. If you had paid ₹5 lakh, this situation wouldn’t have come. These days everything gets managed with money. Collector seeks response from both officers within 7 days Reacting to the controversy, Collector Sanjay Jain stated: There is zero tolerance for corruption. Decisions are not influenced by pressure or confusion. Rules and evidence are the only basis. The district administration has initiated: Considering the gravity of the allegations made against the Collector and the court, show-cause notices have been issued to both: They have been asked to submit replies within 7 days. Past allegations against Executive Engineer Rawat This is not the first time Rawat has faced scrutiny. In an earlier Commissioner’s inquiry: However, final action on those findings is still pending.