Massive Corruption Unearthed in Hyderabad Town Planning Department
Hyderabad January 24
In a major breakthrough, the Anti-Corruption Department has exposed the illicit activities of HMDA Town Planning Department Director, Siva Balakrishna, who stands accused of embezzling over Rs. 100 crores. Balakrishna, also serving as Metro Rail Planning Officer and Secretary in RERA, had been under investigation for accumulating assets beyond his reported income.
Conducted simultaneously on Wednesday morning, raids by 14 teams targeted Balakrishna’s residence, offices, and relatives’ homes. The search yielded staggering results, with assets exceeding Rs. 100 crores identified, including Rs. 40 lakhs in cash, two kilograms of gold, and documents pertaining to immovable property. Additionally, 60 expensive watches, 14 mobile phones, and 10 laptops were seized. Cash counting machines were discovered at Balakrishna’s residence, and four bank lockers are yet to be opened.
The investigation indicates that these assets were amassed during Balakrishna’s tenure at HMDA, suggesting a prolonged period of corruption. Officials anticipate the possibility of uncovering more assets as searches continue in bank lockers and relatives’ residences.
With suspicions of high-level patronage and political involvement, the Anti-Corruption Department is diligently pursuing leads, examining the alleged deposits of crores with the backing of influential figures. The investigation remains ongoing, with officials determined to expose the full extent of this egregious corruption scandal.
