Suspended 2006-batch IAS officer Mr. Abhishek Prakash continues to evade appearance before the Vigilance Department, which is investigating corruption allegations related to a Rs. 7,000 crore solar power project. Despite being served multiple notices, the officer has yet to present himself for questioning. Meanwhile, the Special Investigation Team (SIT) has made significant progress and is preparing to file a chargesheet next week.
The Vigilance inquiry was initiated following the Uttar Pradesh government’s order on March 21, 2025, to probe Mr. Prakash’s role in the alleged corruption linked to SAEL Solar P6 Pvt Ltd. The company had submitted a detailed project report (DPR) for establishing a solar power component manufacturing unit in the state. It was alleged that Invest UP officials demanded a five percent commission to clear the proposal.
Mr. Abhishek Prakash, who was serving as the CEO of Invest UP at the time, was suspended on March 20 after a confidential probe ordered by Chief Minister Mr. Yogi Adityanath found prima facie evidence of corruption. The same day, accused Mr. Nikant Jain was arrested by Gomti Nagar police for allegedly seeking commission in the deal.
The Vigilance Department has already gathered information on Mr. Prakash’s assets, income, and investments, and sent him a notice to record his statement. However, his continued non-compliance has delayed proceedings. Vigilance officials plan to issue another summons, and if he still does not respond, the department will submit its investigation report to the government for further action.
Meanwhile, the SIT, constituted by the DGP Headquarters on April 4, has nearly completed its investigation. It has recorded the statement of Mr. Nikant Jain, who remains in judicial custody. Forensic examination of his two mobile phones reportedly yielded crucial evidence.
The SIT has also recorded statements from Invest UP officials and staff, along with the plaintiff in the case. However, notably, Mr. Abhishek Prakash’s statement has not yet been recorded in this case.
Given the case’s sensitive and high-profile nature, the upcoming chargesheet is expected to detail a significant corruption nexus involving bureaucratic misuse of position for personal gain.
