Avinash Azad
The Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) of Jammu and Kashmir has launched a crackdown on two senior officials of Srinagar Smart City Limited (SSCL), registering disproportionate assets (DA) cases against Sajid Yousuf Bhat, Chief Financial Officer (CFO), and Zahoor Ahmad Dar, Executive Engineer.
Both are accused of amassing wealth far exceeding their known sources of income, raising serious questions about the integrity of the Smart City mission.
Lavish Lifestyle Under Scrutiny
ACB’s investigation revealed that both officials allegedly live a lifestyle grossly disproportionate to their legitimate earnings. Sajid Yousuf Bhat, a resident of Pampore currently residing in Khanyar, Srinagar, is reported to own a commercial property in Rambagh, Srinagar. The property’s actual market value is allegedly significantly higher than the declared value in the sale deed. Furthermore, multiple bank accounts linked to Bhat have shown suspicious transactions, indicating possible corruption.
A case (FIR No. 01/2025) has been registered against Bhat under Section 13(1)(b) read with Section 13(2) of the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988.
Benami Properties and Suspicious Transactions
Similarly, Zahoor Ahmad Dar, a resident of Takinwaripora currently residing in Galibabad, Shalteng, is accused of owning a multi-storied luxurious house, a sedan car, and engaging in suspicious transactions through personal and spouse-linked bank accounts. Allegations also include the acquisition of benami properties and fixed deposit receipts (FDRs) worth substantial amounts. A separate case (FIR No. 02/2025) has been registered against Dar under the same sections of the Prevention of Corruption Act.
Acting on search warrants issued by a competent court, the ACB has conducted raids at various locations linked to the accused. The raids aim to uncover additional evidence of corrupt practices and the extent of illicit wealth amassed by the officials. Investigations are ongoing.
The allegations against Bhat and Dar bring the ambitious Srinagar Smart City project under a cloud of suspicion. The project, aimed at transforming Srinagar into a modern, citizen-friendly city, has been criticized for delays and inefficiency.
Now, the corruption charges have further tarnished its reputation, raising concerns about the misuse of public funds. Numerous irregularities and fund misappropriations have been reported in Jammu Smart City Limited as well. The individuals misusing their authority to exploit public funds and burden the state exchequer are likely to be held accountable and brought to justice.
