The Vigilance and Anti-Corruption Bureau (VACB) has received preliminary intelligence that the illegal conversion of wetlands to saleable real estate using forged government orders and fabricated documents was more widespread in the State than presumed initially. In response, Director, VACB, Anil Kant, has constituted a special investigation team to unearth other such violations, if any. Officials said Mr. Kant had flagged up the possibility that there could be more attempts to convert wetlands using the same method witnessed in Choornikkara in Ernakulam district. It could just be the tip of the iceberg, and the possibility of use of forged documents to alter land use pattern for the commercial advantage of a few could be widespread. Village officer’s roleThe Choornikkara village officer’s refusal to accept the fake documents had blown the lid off the racket.

Source: The Hindu May 15, 2019 18:56 UTC