In an astonishing breach of official protocol and data security, a clerk at the Central Goods and Services Tax (CGST) Department in Nagpur has been caught on camera carting away bundles of crucial government files—some containing sensitive tax data worth crores—and selling them to a scrap dealer for a mere Rs 5,000.
The employee, identified as Mohan Gund, was seen on CCTV footage loading stacks of official documents into a hired auto from the CGST Range Office located opposite VCA in Civil Lines. Reportedly intoxicated, Gund made multiple trips between the office and the vehicle, transporting files believed to include confidential GST assessments, audit reports, and compliance records.
CCTV Footage Uncovers the Breach
The shocking lapse came to light on July 17, when staff noticed several files missing. Upon reviewing CCTV footage, officials discovered Gund’s actions and swiftly traced the scrap dealer who had unknowingly purchased the documents as waste paper. The CGST Department promptly reimbursed the scrap dealer and retrieved the sensitive records.
Assistant Commissioner Sadhishkumar Thota issued an immediate suspension order against Gund, who has now been instructed to report to headquarters daily during his suspension period.
History of Misconduct Overlooked
This incident is not Gund’s first brush with misconduct. Previously posted in CGST Indore, he was transferred to Nagpur following repeated disciplinary issues. Hired on compassionate grounds after the death of his father, a former department employee, Gund had a reputation for troubling colleagues for money, frequent absenteeism, and erratic behavior.
Despite prior warnings and his salary being withheld at times, department officials reportedly showed leniency due to his personal circumstances—until now.
Departmental Inquiry Initiated
A full-fledged departmental inquiry has been launched into the episode. Gund’s Annual Confidential Report (ACR) is under review, and if found guilty, he may face termination from service.
The breach has sparked serious alarm regarding the security of sensitive tax data stored within CGST offices. Experts warn that if such information had landed in the wrong hands, it could have led to massive data leaks, potentially aiding tax evaders and damaging the integrity of the nation’s tax enforcement system.
A Wake-Up Call for Systemic Reform
This bizarre and troubling incident has highlighted glaring gaps in internal checks and accountability mechanisms within the department. It also underscores the potentially devastating consequences that a single rogue employee can inflict on national financial infrastructure.
Read More: Over 10 Lakh MSMEs Go Digital, Says Govt.
