Even as the UT Vigilance department is yet to arrest the four accused who allegedly cheated an NRI by illegally selling off his property in the city, Home Secretary Ram Niwas transferred Assistant Estate Officer Ashwani Kumar on Thursday, suspecting his involvement in the case.

The Administration has sent a communiqué to the State Election Commission, seeking its permission to transfer Ashwani, who also holds the charge of returning officer for the forthcoming panchayat elections. Officials said a nod from the commission was likely on Friday, after which Ashwani would be relieved of the charge.

Officials of the UT Estate Office, in connivance with a few lawyers, had allegedly issued a no-objection certificate and registered the sale deed of a shop-cum-flat (SCF) in Sector 20 without the knowledge of its owner, Tara Singh, who lives in England. The NRI brought the matter to the notice of the home secretary on Wednesday, following which the Vigilance department registered a criminal case and started investigations.

“Ashwani’s transfer orders have been issued. A formal nod from the State Election Commission is, however, required because he is the returning officer for the panchayat elections. Land Acquisition Officer (LAO) Hargunjit Kaur will be given all the charges held by Ashwani, who will replace her as the LAO for the time being,” said a senior UT official.

Besides Ashwani Kumar, all those estate officials who dealt with Tara Singh’s case file are likely to face the music. “Investigating officials are compiling all prima facie evidence and details, which will be brought to me in a formal report. Action will be taken against all those found guilty,” said Ram Niwas.

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