The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has carried out searches at 26 locations across 11 states and Union Territories in connection with alleged misappropriation of Border Roads Organisation (BRO) funds. The raids were conducted following complaints from the Ministry of Defence regarding irregularities in Ladakh’s Project Vijayak and Project Yojak.
According to officials, the case involves payments made in the names of fake casual labourers, commonly referred to as “ghost labourers,” leading to diversion of government funds meant for critical border infrastructure. Four FIRs have been registered against 10 BRO officers, including a Lieutenant Colonel, a Major, and several engineers, along with private individuals.
The accused face charges under multiple sections of the Indian Penal Code, including cheating, forgery, criminal breach of trust, and conspiracy, as well as provisions of the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988. During the searches, incriminating documents and digital evidence were seized.
The BRO plays a vital role in constructing and maintaining road networks in border areas, directly supporting India’s defence preparedness. Misappropriation of funds in such projects poses serious risks to national security and undermines institutional trust in defence-linked infrastructure management.
The CBI investigation, triggered by an internal audit of the Defence Ministry, highlights the government’s zero-tolerance approach towards corruption in strategic projects. Legal proceedings are expected to follow, with the possibility of dismissals and convictions for those found guilty.
