Forest Officer Suspended Over ₹50 Lakh Cigarette Diversion

N. Venkataramana, the forest range officer of Bhakarapeta, has been suspended amid allegations of diverting and selling approximately ₹50 lakh worth of cigarettes. These cigarettes were seized last year during an interception of illegal transport originating from Chennai. The consignment was destined for Rayachoti in Annamayya district, passing through Tirupati and surrounding areas, with Venkataramana overseeing the seizure. However, suspicions arose when the seized stock was reportedly not properly accounted for in departmental records and was allegedly sold to private individuals. A formal complaint lodged with the deputy chief minister prompted a senior forest department inquiry. The subsequent investigation reportedly found Venkataramana responsible for selling the seized cigarettes, leading to his suspension by the principal chief conservator of forests. This measure is intended to facilitate an impartial inquiry and prevent any potential tampering with evidence. The suspended officer has been instructed to remain at the Bhakarapeta headquarters without prior permission.