The investigation into Uttar Pradesh’s high-profile ₹1,400 crore memorial scam has once again gathered pace, with authorities intensifying scrutiny into the alleged financial irregularities linked to the project.
Based on a vigilance FIR registered in 2014, the probe pertains to large-scale irregularities in the construction of grand memorials in Lucknow and Noida.
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According to a senior government official, the alleged scam took place between 2007 and 2011, during which significant discrepancies were reported in the procurement and supply of stone materials used in the projects.
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Investigating agencies have alleged that stones were purchased at prices several times higher than prevailing market rates, resulting in substantial losses to the state exchequer.
Several former officials of the Lucknow Development Authority (LDA) and the Uttar Pradesh Rajya Nirman Nigam (UPRNN) have come under scrutiny in connection with the case.
Sources indicate that nearly 57 officials, including superintending engineers and chief engineers, may face departmental and legal action once the investigation is completed. The authorities are in the process of examining the roles and responsibilities of all officials involved.
Government sources revealed that, given the seriousness of the matter, Lucknow Commissioner Vijay Vishwas Pant has sought detailed records and documents related to the projects from the concerned departments. These documents will form the basis for determining individual accountability.
Administrative circles believe that the renewed momentum in the probe could lead to significant developments in the coming days.
With the investigation gaining pace, unease has reportedly grown within the departments concerned, and large-scale action is expected in this long-pending and closely watched memorial scam case.
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