Guwahati, 26th September: The revelation of a forgery racket involving the Bongaigaon District Transport Office (DTO) has sent shockwaves through Assam’s administrative system. Amit Saha, a whistleblower and victim of the fraud, has brought to light a large-scale manipulation of vehicle registration processes, implicating high-level officials within the transport department.
Saha’s 14-wheel truck, initially registered in Dhubri, was fraudulently re-registered under a different name and number in the Bongaigaon DTO office. His investigation has unveiled deep-rooted corruption involving DTO officials, Motor Vehicle Inspectors (MVIs), and other staff. The racket reportedly facilitated the re-registration of stolen and old vehicles without necessary documentation, such as customs clearance and purchase papers.
Over 400 forged vehicle documents have been discovered, highlighting the scale of the racket. Vehicles were allegedly brought in from distant locations like Lakshadweep and re-registered in Bongaigaon, bypassing standard legal procedures. Several arrests have been made, including that of Deepak Patowary, the enforcement inspector, who also serves as the in-charge district transport officer of Bongaigaon.
Saha has called for a comprehensive investigation by national agencies like the Enforcement Directorate (ED) and Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). He has also urged Assam’s Chief Minister to intervene, stressing that only a high-level inquiry can fully expose the corruption network within the transport department.
The ongoing investigation is expected to have significant ramifications for the transport department across Assam, as it seeks to restore credibility and prevent further fraudulent activities.
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