TDP Leader Chandrababu Naidu Arrested for Andhra Pradesh Skill Development Scandal
TDP Leader Chandrababu Naidu ‘s Arrest:
Telugu Desam Party (TDP) Leader Chandrababu Naidu arrested in connection with an alleged scam involving the Andhra Pradesh Skill Development Corporation (APSSDC). He was arrested at around 6 am from R K Function Hall in Gnanapuram, Nandyala town. This news is confirm by state police on Saturday morning. Subsequently, several other TDP leaders have been placed under house arrest.
Naidu faces multiple charges under the Indian Penal Code (IPC), including Sections 120B (criminal conspiracy), 420 (cheating and dishonestly inducing delivery of property), and 465 (forgery). Additionally, the Andhra Pradesh Crime Investigation Department (AP CID) has invoked the Prevention of Corruption Act against him. A notice served to him stated, “This is to inform you that you have been arrested… at 6 am at R K Function Hall, Gnanapuram, H/o Moolasagaram, Nandyala town, and it is a non-bailable offense.”
The Andhra Pradesh Skill Development Corruption Case:
The Andhra Pradesh Skill Development Corporation (APSSDC) was established in 2016 during the TDP government tenure in Andhra Pradesh. The program principal goal was to empower unemployed youngsters by providing them with skill training opportunities.
The AP CID launched an inquiry into the alleged scam, which is worth Rs 3,300 crore, in March. It was discovered that the project was launched without following correct tendering procedures.
Serious Irregularities Uncovered in the Investigation:
The investigation into the AP Skill Development Scam has unearthed several serious irregularities.
Advance Payments Misused: Prior to any expenditure by private entities, the Government of Andhra Pradesh and APSSDC provided an advance of Rs. 371 Crores, representing the entire 10% commitment by the government.
Funds Diverted to Shell Companies: A significant portion of the government’s advance was diverted to shell companies through fraudulent invoices, with no actual delivery or sale of the items mentioned in those invoices.
Unapproved Project: The program was initiated without obtaining project approval from the Andhra Pradesh cabinet.
Misuse of Funds: Funds allocated for the project were funneled into shell companies, deviating from the official procedure.
Involvement of Siemens Industry Software India: The development of six centers of excellence for skill development was entrusted to Siemens Industry Software India as part of the project’s consortium.
Key Accusations and Suspects:
The investigation has identified key accusations and suspects:
Nara Chandrababu Naidu the prime accused and the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) alleged beneficiaries of the misappropriated funds.
Naidu is considered the mastermind behind the scheme. Orchestrating the transfer of public funds to private entities via shell companies. It results in a loss to the public exchequer while benefiting privately.
The ultimate use of the misappropriated funds, including cash holdings with individuals like Vikas Khanvilkar, requires further examination, according to official statements.
Critical documents related to the case have gone missing, with Naidu and other individuals being primary suspects in their disappearance.
This unfolding scandal underscores the need for transparency and accountability in government projects. It highlights the alleged financial misconduct that has occurred in the APSSDC.