A shocking case of alleged financial fraud has come to light in Gondpipri Tehsil, where a man who died 12 years ago was listed as a Panchayat worker, raising questions over the misuse of Rs 80 lakh in public funds. According to an RTI disclosure, Vilas Chanekar, a resident of Dhaba village who passed away in 2013, was recorded as employed by the Gram Panchayat in 2024 to feed and water animals at the village’s animal shelter. A payment of Rs 7,200 was reportedly issued in his name.

The documentation of the expenditure lacks basic procedural compliance: there is no voucher number, and the signature field contains only the name “Vilas” without a thumb impression. Chanekar’s son, Nitin, has confirmed that his family never received any such payment.

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The Gram Panchayat now faces serious allegations of financial misappropriation and embezzlement involving funds received from the 15th Finance Commission totaling Rs 80 lakh. Citizens of Dhaba and surrounding areas are demanding a high-level inquiry to identify those responsible and prevent further misuse of public money. This incident highlights persistent vulnerabilities in Panchayat-level fund management and the urgent need for stricter oversight and accountability mechanisms.

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