Ranchi, June 10: Labour commissioner Aradhana Patnaik, an IAS officer who is known for her uprightness, has come under the scanner of Raj Bhavan for her alleged acts of omission and commission in the capacity of Gumla deputy commissioner.

Gumla deputy development commissioner Madanlal Das and then district rural development agency director Rajeshwar Das are also facing the music.

The three IAS officers have been issued showcause notices. Though no time frame has been set within which they should justify their roles, Governor Syed Sibtey Razi has ordered that the final report should reach him within 15 days so that actions can be taken. “Considering observations by governor’s adviser G. Krishnan, suspension of these officials appear imminent,” said an official.

Sources said that last evening, the Raj Bhavan had almost approved the suspension of these officials. However, notification of the order was withheld after it was observed that the officers should be given a chance to explain their positions.

About two years ago, Gumla district was granted Rs 200,508,067 for undertaking plantation work out of which Rs 132,022,341 was released. But a scrutiny of groundwork suggested that only Rs 29,363,739 was utilised. This led to the conclusion that Rs 102,658,602 were embezzled.

The officials in question allegedly awarded plantation work to NGOs without floating tenders or inviting quotations. Razi has ordered that the extra amount given to the NGOs should be realised within two months after proper “trial”. Gumla superintendent of police has been asked to complete investigation against the NGOs and submit a report within two months while the Gumla deputy commissioner has been directed to regularly update the Raj Bhavan.

Taking strong exception of the neglect of NREGS projects in Dumri block, Gumla, Razi ordered suspension of then BDO A.B.I. Khalkho now posted in Rajmahal as land reforms deputy collector. He has been charged with irregularities in construction of wells and plantation work.