KTU Deputy Registrar B Anand has been suspended over a Vigilance case linked to alleged irregularities in the ₹2.48-crore Pookkode Lake renovation project in Wayanad.
Thiruvananthapuram: B Anand, Deputy Registrar of APJ Abdul Kalam Technological University (KTU), has been suspended in connection with a Vigilance and Anti-Corruption Bureau (VACB) case concerning alleged irregularities in the renovation and beautification of Pookkode Lake in Wayanad.
Anand had earlier served as the Member Secretary of the Wayanad District Tourism Promotion Council (DTPC) on deputation between 2018 and 2021. The vigilance case relates to the implementation of the Pookkode Lake renovation and beautification project, which had an estimated cost of ₹2.48 crore.
Vigilance Case and Suspension
According to the suspension order issued by KTU, the Vigilance Department informed the university’s Vice-Chancellor about the case and sought Anand’s removal from all duties until the investigation is completed.
The department reportedly expressed concerns that his continued presence in office could allow him to influence witnesses or interfere with evidence connected to the investigation.
The case concerns alleged irregularities during the period when Anand was serving as Member Secretary of the Wayanad DTPC. Another report stated that Anand has been named as the first accused in the vigilance case and that the government had directed the university to take action based on the Vigilance Department’s recommendation. ([Deepika News][2])
University Cites Transparency and Credibility
KTU also cited Anand’s senior position within the university as a reason for the suspension. As Deputy Registrar, he was handling important files and documents, including matters of a confidential nature.
The university order noted that allowing an official facing a Vigilance investigation to continue in such a senior administrative position could affect the institution’s credibility, transparency and public confidence. His removal was therefore considered necessary in the interest of the university and the ongoing investigation.
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Official Access Blocked
Following the suspension, officials were directed to ensure that all files, official documents, keys and other instruments in Anand’s possession were handed over to the appropriate higher authority.
His access to KTU’s official website, university portal and official email account has also been ordered to be blocked until further orders. The suspension will remain in force until further orders, according to the university’s order.
The suspension comes as the Vigilance investigation into the alleged irregularities in the ₹2.48-crore Pookkode Lake project continues.
