DVAC begins probe into HR and CE staffing irregularities

DVAC documents noted that the accused M Pugazhendran was in control of five temples – Avinasilingeswarar temple in Avinashi, Anumatharaya Swami temple in Idugampalayam, Mariamman Angalamman temple and Iyappa Swamy temple in Pollachi and Aruthra Kapaleeswarar temple in Erode – during the period from the year 2011-2013.

The FIR said that executive officers in the said temples upon instigation of Pugazhendran had allegedly sent recommendations for fixing the pay of the temporary staff under them. Pugazhendran, during his tenure, without obtaining sanction order from the HR&CE Commissioner, issued orders for pay fixation as permanent employees for 46 temporary staff, who were recruited on the basis of daily wages and thereby violating the HR and CE regulations.

The official had then abused his official position and without any public interest, passed order for the claim of pay arrears and other benefits apart from the regular pay for the 46 employees and there by caused undue pecuniary advantage to them and monetary loss to the tune of Rs 19.21 lakh to HR and CE exchequer.

After preliminary inquiry, the DVAC has found that there are materials which made out a case against the accused, who is now retired and settled in Madurai. The case was registered under the Prevention of Corruption Act last week by the SIC, Chennai.