Three Bandlaguda RTO officials suspended after cash-counting video surfaces

Three officials of the Bandlaguda Regional Transport Office, including its head, were suspended with immediate effect on Sunday after a video showing a transport constable counting currency notes inside the office circulated widely on social media.

Transport Commissioner K. Ilambarithi issued separate suspension orders against Regional Transport Officer L. Ramchander, Motor Vehicle Inspector D. Bheem Singh and Transport Constable V. Arun Kumar. A preliminary inquiry has been ordered into the alleged unauthorised collection of money at the office.

The video, which drew attention after media reports, showed the constable counting notes during working hours while applications submitted by members of the public for transport-related services, including learner's licences, lay before him. Another person was seen seated near a computer used for conducting tests.

The department stated that the source and purpose of the cash had not been explained so far. Reports had also alleged that money was being collected at the office through brokers or agents.

In the constable's case, the suspension order noted that counting currency notes inside the office did not form part of his official duties. His continued presence at the workplace could prejudice the inquiry, including access to records, CCTV footage and witnesses, the order said.

Action was also initiated against Ramchander, who as head of the office was responsible for its discipline, integrity and functioning. The order cited a prima facie failure to control unauthorised collection of money, the handling of cash by staff and the presence of brokers on the premises.

Bheem Singh, who was in charge of the section and test area where the incident allegedly occurred, was suspended for an alleged failure to supervise staff under his control and to prevent unauthorised handling of cash and the presence of unauthorised persons in the test area.

The orders said the alleged lapses prima facie amounted to a lack of integrity and devotion to duty and conduct unbecoming of government servants under the Telangana Civil Services (Conduct) Rules, 1964.

The Transport Department said strict action would be taken over the presence of agents in its offices, and that the respective RTO would be held accountable if agents were allowed inside. Further disciplinary action will be considered after the preliminary inquiry report is submitted, according to the suspension orders.