Investigation Exposes Corruption In MLA LAD Funds, MLA Claims Reporter “Hypnotized” Him Into Taking Bribe

A hidden-camera investigation into Rajasthan’s MLA Local Area Development (MLA-LAD) funds has sparked a political firestorm, exposing alleged misuse of discretionary development money meant to address local infrastructure gaps.

A Sting That Shook the Assembly

In early December, the investigation named three legislators allegedly involved in commission schemes tied to project recommendations:

• Rewant Ram Danga (BJP, Khivsar): Allegedly sought up to 40% commission on development works worth ₹50 lakh.
• Anita Jatav (Congress, Hindaun): Accused of accepting ₹50,000 for projects valued at ₹80 lakh.
• Ritu Banawat (Independent, Bayana, Bharatpur): Allegedly finalized a ₹40 lakh deal via her husband.

The report suggested that recommendation letters issued in the district council CEO’s name were used to sanction projects without proper assessment of need or priority, highlighting vulnerabilities in the MLA-LAD fund system. Rajasthan MLAs receive ₹5 crore annually, a sum intended for small but critical local projects like roads, school facilities, and community buildings.

Denials, Defenses, and Political Pushback

All three legislators have denied wrongdoing. Rewant Ram Danga claimed the reporter had “hypnotized” him into taking money, a statement widely met with skepticism. Political reactions were split: some questioned the ethics of sting operations, while others argued that the specificity of commission percentages and project details lent credibility to the allegations.

The episode has reignited debate over accountability in discretionary funds, with critics noting that existing audits are often retrospective and poorly equipped to detect collusion before projects are sanctioned.

Inside the Investigation

The undercover operation involved a reporter posing as a dummy firm owner seeking contracts with the Khadi and Village Industries Board. Conversations quickly focused on commission percentages rather than project quality or community needs, according to the report.

State Intervention and Freeze on Development

In response, Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma ordered a high-level inquiry. The MLA-LAD accounts of the accused constituencies were frozen, and all project implementation and payments were halted. A four-member committee led by ACS Home Bhaskar A. Sawant is tasked with submitting findings within 15 days.

Former Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot called the incident “extremely serious,” urging the Speaker and state authorities to ensure a thorough investigation. Meanwhile, local residents face stalled projects, highlighting how allegations—even before formal findings—can disrupt development.