CBI investigation into IAS officer Pankaj Agarwal

2 entries over 2 days, from 24 June 2026 to 25 June 2026.

01
24 June

CBI arrest of former Haryana official

CBI arrested a former Principal Secretary of Haryana's School Education and Agriculture departments for alleged misappropriation of funds.
The case involves the diversion of ₹60.54 crore from government accounts held at IDFC First Bank, Chandigarh.
The misappropriation allegedly occurred through the opening of department accounts in violation of Finance Department guidelines and exceeding prescribed fund transfer limits.
The total alleged scam involves the diversion of ₹504 crore from eight Haryana government departments to shell entities.
CBI has charge-sheeted 17 accused, including government officials, bank employees, and private companies.

02
25 June

IAS officer Pankaj Agarwal arrested by CBI in connection with a ₹504-crore IDFC First Bank scam.
The officer served as the Returning Officer during a Rajya Sabha election.
Allegations have been raised regarding the potential for political interference in the conduct of Rajya Sabha elections.
Concerns exist regarding the independence of Returning Officers and the integrity of the electoral process in indirect elections.

Newest first. A story that ran for 2 days is exactly the kind the mains paper asks about as one question.

Discuss the role and responsibilities of a Returning Officer in the conduct of Rajya Sabha elections. How does the legal framework ensure the impartiality of these officials? 150 words · 25 June
The integrity of the electoral process is the bedrock of Indian democracy. In light of concerns regarding administrative neutrality, evaluate the mechanisms available to ensure that the conduct of elections remains free from executive or political influence. 250 words · 25 June
Discuss the systemic vulnerabilities in the management of government department accounts that facilitate the diversion of public funds to shell entities. Suggest institutional reforms to enhance financial oversight. 150 words · 24 June

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