NCB Mumbai Director Amit Ghawate under investigation for alleged Misuse of Power, Illegal Gratification and Beacon Violation

Mumbai: Amit Ghawate, the Joint Director of the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) Mumbai Zonal Unit, is facing mounting allegations of misconduct and misuse of authority. A formal complaint has been lodged by an officer of the Central Agency, accusing Ghawate of a series of serious infractions. These allegations include the unauthorized use of a red beacon on his private vehicle and the misuse of a government vehicle for personal tasks, in direct violation of established rules, misusing of official power and receiving illegal gratification.

In response to the complaint, the NCB’s Deputy Director General (DDG) of the Western Zone has initiated a detailed Preliminary Enquiry into the matter. The enquiry is aimed at investigating these claims and bringing to light any potential misconduct.

Among the most concerning allegations is Ghawate’s alleged close association with M/s Jubilant Pharma, a company that allegedly provides him with accommodations and vehicle arrangements during his official tours across India, a clear violation of conduct. According to the complaint, Ghawate is accused of receiving accommodation and other favors from Jubilant Pharma in locations like Pune and Delhi, constituting what is termed as illegal and illegitimate gratification. The complaint further claims that Ghawate is receiving regular fixed payments from this company every quarter, with the amount being paid in cash. Notably, this company is also registered with the NCB, raising further concerns over a conflict of interest.

Additionally, it has come to light that Ghawate has been accused of paying out of pocket for 5-star hotel accommodation and vehicle charges for other senior officials at NCB headquarters. The complaint alleges that these payments are made in cash and that Ghawate frequently handles personal tasks for the families of high-ranking officials within the NCB.

The allegations go deeper, with accusations that Ghawate has frequently booked vehicles for higher officials and their families for unofficial tours, again settling payments in cash through undisclosed sources.

These revelations, combined with earlier accusations of unauthorized red beacon use, have cast a shadow over Ghawate’s conduct within the agency. These actions, if proven true, would represent a significant misuse of public resources and a breach of trust.

The case has highlighted the significance of Section 108 of the Central Motor Vehicles Rules (CMVR) 1989, which allows state governments to authorize specific VIPs and officials to use red or amber beacon lights on official vehicles. In 2014, following a Supreme Court directive, the list of officials eligible for beacon usage was severely reduced. Currently, only top officials above the secretary level, police officers of inspector general rank or higher, and regional commissioners are permitted to use amber beacons without flashers. Ghawate’s alleged misuse of the red beacon clearly violates these updated norms.

An investigation is now underway, and the NCB is awaiting further details from the complainant to advance the enquiry.

Amit Ghawate’s case bears similarities to the case of Puja Khedkar, where allegations of misuse of power and unethical conduct were central, underscoring the pervasive issue of authority figures allegedly exploiting their positions for personal gain. Both instances raise significant concerns over the integrity of public institutions and the need for stringent oversight.

This case continues to develop, with significant implications for the NCB and the standards of conduct within the organization.

Further developments are expected as the inquiry progresses.