Chennai: Tamil Nadu Registration Minister Lokesh Thamizhselvan has warned that the Directorate of Vigilance and Anti-Corruption (DVAC) will conduct searches at district registrars’ offices and even their homes if corruption complaints are received.
Bribery allegations at sub-registrar offices have persisted for years, with the public complaining of demands for money during document registration. Despite earlier inspections and action in the past, the practice has not been fully eliminated, the report noted.
Following a change in government, officials were instructed to ensure the public faces no harassment and is treated respectfully at registration offices. However, complaints have continued from several locations, including claims that even valid documents were refused when bribes were not paid.
On June 4, DVAC carried out surprise checks at 46 sub-registrar offices and seized Rs 38 lakh in unaccounted cash. The minister later conducted field inspections in districts, where members of the public raised multiple complaints against sub-registrars.
At a review meeting in Chennai attended by district registrars and registration department DIGs, the minister said complaints have also been received against district registrar and DIG offices. He urged officials to ensure transparent administration within the next three months, warning that DVAC raids would follow based on public complaints.
