Former I&PR Commissioner T. Vijay Kumar Reddy's Corruption Unveiled
The corrupt activities of former State Information Department Commissioner T. Vijay Kumar Reddy are coming to light one by one. The Vigilance department has been uncovering irregularities, unethical practices, and corruption he engaged in during his tenure. Initially, allegations centered on him and his associates exploiting only the Information Department, but now, evidence points to his corruption extending to the Digital Corporation as well. At that time, Vasudeva Reddy, who was the MD of the Digital Corporation, along with Vijay Kumar Reddy, is accused of creating fake companies and embezzling funds. The Vigilance inquiry has revealed that funds were indiscriminately sanctioned to ineligible companies, with large sums misappropriated. Vijay Kumar Reddy, known for wielding enormous power over the department, reportedly looted not only the Information Department but also engaged in corruption across other sectors. He is also accused of accepting hefty bribes for employee transfers, including for the transfer of even low-ranking attendants.
Allegations During His Tenure
Coming from central services to serve as the State Information Department Commissioner for five years, Vijay Kumar Reddy was known for his allegiance to then-Chief Minister Jaganmohan Reddy. It is alleged that he siphoned off public funds to Jagan's media outlets while also enriching himself and his close associates. Reports suggest he embezzled hundreds of crores through advertisements to Jagan's newspaper and other unethical practices. He centralized the release of advertisements, ensuring funds flowed through his hands, enabling large-scale corruption. Vijay Kumar Reddy also reportedly engaged in fraudulent practices in issuing outdoor advertisements, CCTVs, publications, contract recruitments, and accreditations. His loyalists and influential officials who collaborated with him are believed to have shared in the loot.
Unethical Conduct
Beyond corruption, Vijay Kumar Reddy is accused of engaging in several unethical activities. Accounts from department staff suggest he misused his power, often working late into the night on questionable operations. Allegations of inappropriate behavior towards women have also surfaced, prompting demands for vigilance and anti-corruption investigations.
Controversial Re-posting of Key Officials
Rumors are rife that one of the key officials who collaborated with Vijay Kumar Reddy is lobbying for a re-posting in the same department. Reports suggest that the Information Department minister’s office is actively advocating for this appointment, raising eyebrows across the Secretariat. Although arrangements were made to transfer this official elsewhere, the individual is reportedly adamant about returning to the department.
Despite assurances in the Assembly from Minister Parthasarathy that action would be taken against corrupt officials, no significant measures have been implemented yet. Instead, preparations to reinstate those involved in corruption have drawn criticism, raising questions about the minister’s awareness or potential manipulation by officials. Succumbing to such pressures and reinstating corrupt officials could create more problems for the minister.
