₹100 Crore Benami Property: Mainpuri CO Rishikant Shukla Suspended, Vigilance Probe Ordered
Kanpur (Uttar Pradesh): Vigilance authorities have ordered an inquiry against Rishikant Shukla, Circle Officer (CO) posted in Mainpuri, following revelations by the Special Investigation Team (SIT) formed by Kanpur Police. The SIT report exposed benami and disproportionate assets worth ₹100 crore allegedly held by Shukla. Acting on the findings, the government has suspended him with immediate effect.
Accused of aiding criminal gang
According to the SIT report, CO Rishikant Shukla allegedly assisted the gang of jailed advocate Akhilesh Dubey. However, Shukla has denied all allegations, terming them baseless. His suspension has triggered widespread discussions within the police department.
Previous actions against others
Notably, Commissionerate Police recently suspended Inspector Ashish Dwivedi for his alleged close ties with advocate Akhilesh Dubey. Several police officers and KDA officials have also received notices from the SIT.
Assets under relatives’ and partners’ names
The investigation revealed that Shukla acquired properties worth ₹100 crore under his own name, as well as those of his relatives and business partners. Earlier, Police Commissioner Akhil Kumar had arrested advocate Akhilesh Dubey under “Operation Mahakaal.” The SIT report also exposed a nexus involving police officials, journalists, and lawyers.
Major action in the case so far
Shukla’s name first surfaced during this investigation. His suspension and the recommendation for a vigilance probe are being seen as the most significant action to date in the Akhilesh Dubey case.
