Governor Orders Departmental Action Against Darbhanga Engineering College Principal

Darbhanga, Bihar: The Governor of Bihar has ordered departmental action against Dr. Sandeep Tiwari, Principal of Darbhanga Engineering College (DEC), after preliminary investigations found serious financial irregularities. The action has been initiated under Rule 17 of the Bihar Government Servants Classification, Control and Appeal Rules, 2005. Dr. Tiwari is accused of making arbitrary payments to preferred lawyers and misusing development funds.

Allegations Against the Principal
According to a letter from the department’s Additional Secretary and Director dated 1 August, Dr. Tiwari was asked to present his response after a departmental probe. The investigation revealed irregularities in the college’s development fund, including unauthorized payments to selected lawyers without forming a proper selection panel or obtaining departmental approval. These payments were confirmed through cash book records.

Other Financial Irregularities
Further examination showed discrepancies in payments to tent service providers. For instance, Pappu Tent House was paid the entire amount due to three service providers, contrary to the Bihar Financial Rules. Additionally, the principal allegedly failed to cooperate fully with the investigation team, withholding attendance registers of security staff, gardeners, and sweepers.

Misuse of Development Funds
The probe uncovered overpricing of items such as a sofa worth ₹2.35 lakh, a mobile phone costing ₹50,000, and two air conditioners, violating Rule 9 of Bihar Financial Rules. Double payments were also made to Shri Om Security from separate budget heads, indicating significant financial irregularities.

Complaints From Staff and District Magistrate
The District Magistrate (DM) had filed complaints against Dr. Tiwari, citing harassment of teachers and staff. Investigations are also ongoing into unusual expenses on solar street lights and other development projects within the same financial year.

Principal’s Response
Dr. Tiwari has stated that he has submitted his response to the department and is cooperating fully. He maintains that all actions were carried out according to regulations and denies any wrongdoing.

Next Steps
The focus now shifts to the departmental proceedings, which could have serious implications for Dr. Tiwari’s career as principal.