Graft allegations rock SKICC, Govt orders high-level inquiry

Srinagar, Jul 7: In a significant move aimed at unearthing alleged financial and administrative irregularities, the Jammu and Kashmir Government has ordered a preliminary inquiry into serious corruption charges at the Sher-i-Kashmir International Conference Centre (SKICC), a prestigious venue nestled along the Dal Lake in Srinagar.
A government order has confirmed the appointment of Satnam Singh, Director of Finance in the Department of Tourism, as the Inquiry Officer to probe the allegations and submit a comprehensive report within a three-week timeframe.
The inquiry was set in motion following a formal communication from the office of the Lieutenant Governor dated February 27 this year, underscoring the seriousness with which the administration is treating the matter.
Among the charges under the scanner are the fraudulent appointment and questionable practices allegedly carried out by one Bilal Ahmad Shah, and accusations of illicit promotion and disproportionate accumulation of wealth by another official, Ghulam Rasool Dhobi. Additionally, the suspicious shutdown of the SKICC’s Recovery Section is being probed as a possible attempt to bury evidence of financial mismanagement and embezzlement.
“The Inquiry Officer has been directed to collect all relevant documents, cross-check facts, and record statements of the concerned personnel to determine the truth behind these allegations,” reads the official order.
The SKICC, which falls under the administrative control of the Jammu and Kashmir Tourism Department, is frequently the site of top-level government meetings, international conferences, and diplomatic engagements. Despite its stature, the institution has reportedly been plagued by operational opacity and growing concerns over internal irregularities.
Tourism officials, when approached for comments, chose to remain tight-lipped, citing the ongoing nature of the inquiry. However, sources within the administration revealed that the government is taking a zero-tolerance approach, especially considering the financial sensitivity and public profile of the SKICC. [KNT]