Overview
- The Sugar Commissioner has been directed to form a committee and seek information on how funds collected for the Vasantdada Sugar Institute were utilised, after the cabinet’s decision was circulated this week.
- Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said no inquiry has been initiated and described the step as a routine request for financial information, with the Sugar Commissioner also stating no complaint was received.
- Revenue minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule said complaints led to the move, a claim at odds with the commissioner’s account, highlighting disagreement within the government over the trigger.
- NCP (SP) MLA Rohit Pawar called the action politically motivated and said it signals a shift in focus to Baramati, where Sharad Pawar chairs VSI and Ajit Pawar serves on its board.
- VSI officials said they submit annual utilisation certificates and reports and noted the CAG audits the institute, with the last audit conducted about six months ago, as the committee formation now proceeds.