Allegations of Irregularities and Misuse of Public Resources at Patiala Locomotive Works

Public funds, particularly in a resource-constrained organization like Indian Railways, are expected to be utilized judiciously and transparently. Any perception of excessive or avoidable expenditure risks eroding public trust and institutional credibility

Patiala Locomotive Works (#PLW), one of the prestigious production units of Indian Railways, is reportedly witnessing growing discontent among employees due to alleged irregularities in administrative functioning. Serious concerns have been raised regarding the role of the Principal Chief Accounts Officer (#PCAO), Rajesh Mohan, particularly in matters relating to staff accommodation and expenditure on civil and electrical works.

According to employees and internal sources, established rules and seniority norms governing the allotment of Type-V railway quarters are allegedly not being followed. It is alleged that certain junior officers, who do not meet the prescribed eligibility criteria or seniority requirements, have been allotted Type-V accommodation by bypassing senior and eligible officers. If substantiated, such actions would constitute a violation of railway accommodation rules and undermine the principles of fairness and transparency.

For instance, it is alleged that two senior-scale lady officers, who were reportedly not entitled under the rules, have been allotted Type-V bungalows in disregard of applicable norms and procedures.

#Ep165: #PLW कांड—महिला #PHOD का अपमान, #PCAO का षड्यंत्र और बोर्ड की चुप्पी!

In addition to housing-related concerns, questions are also being raised regarding extensive civil and electrical works carried out at the Rail House—official residence of PCAO/PLW. Employees allege that works amounting to several crores of rupees have been executed through the “zonal works” mechanism, which is intended primarily for minor, urgent, and routine repairs. According to staff members, the scale of expenditure is so substantial that a new bungalow could allegedly have been constructed at a significantly lower cost.

Critics argue that using zonal works for such large-scale renovations defeats the very purpose of the system and raises serious concerns about financial prudence and accountability. “Public funds, particularly in a resource-constrained organization like Indian Railways, are expected to be utilized judiciously and transparently. Any perception of excessive or avoidable expenditure risks eroding public trust and institutional credibility”, they said.

Also Read: “Tensions Escalate at PLW Amid Allegations of Misconduct and Partiality, Railway Board Mum”

Further allegations relate to perceived preferential treatment in the allotment of residential accommodation. Employees allege that undue favour has been shown in the allotment of quarters, with a disproportionate number of prominently located ground-floor accommodations—generally considered more desirable—being allotted to employees belonging to a particular community. Staff members claim that such allotments have been made without transparent application of eligibility criteria, seniority, or medical necessity, raising concerns of arbitrariness and bias.

Employees emphasize that railway accommodation is a public resource and must be allotted strictly in accordance with established rules, rosters, and objective criteria, without consideration of community, personal affiliation, or proximity to authority. Any deviation from these principles, they argue, is contrary to the foundational values of equality, neutrality, and non-discrimination in public administration.

Employees are demanding that these allegations be examined objectively through an independent and impartial inquiry. They stress that transparency, strict adherence to rules, and accountability are essential for maintaining morale, discipline, and trust within the organization. If left unaddressed, the situation at PLW may further deepen dissatisfaction among staff and adversely affect the overall working environment.

It is hoped that the competent authorities will take cognizance of these concerns and ensure that all administrative and financial actions are carried out strictly in accordance with established rules, norms, and the larger public interest. To be contd..