The Haryana government has initiated a comprehensive investigation into alleged malpractices among patwaris—officials responsible for maintaining land records. The probe focuses on accusations that these officials have employed personal staff to perform official duties and have engaged in corrupt practices.
A report dated January 14 identified 370 patwaris under scrutiny, with 27 based in Gurgaon. Additionally, 170 individuals employed as personal staff by these patwaris have been named as intermediaries in these alleged corrupt activities. These aides are accused of facilitating bribe transactions, with amounts reportedly ranging from ₹1.5 lakh to ₹3 lakh for services such as property registrations and issuance of general power of attorney (GPA) documents.
Anurag Rastogi, the Additional Chief Secretary of the Revenue Department, has directed all Deputy Commissioners to conduct thorough investigations into these allegations. In response, Gurgaon Deputy Commissioner Ajay Kumar has instructed Sub-Divisional Magistrates (SDMs) to examine the conduct of patwaris within their respective jurisdictions and to implement measures to enhance the operations of revenue offices, known as patwar ghars. The findings from these investigations will be compiled and submitted to the government for further action.
This initiative reflects the government’s commitment to addressing corruption within the revenue department and ensuring transparency in land record management.