Alleged Fraud by LPG Agency—Warehouse Licensed for One Plot but Constructed Elsewhere; Investigation Begins After Landowner's Complaint
Bhagalpur: A serious case of alleged fraud and regulatory violations has surfaced in the Madhusudanpur police station area of Bihar's Bhagalpur district. According to allegations, Ajay Indane Gas Agency, located in Kanjhia, obtained approval for its LPG warehouse and a Petroleum and Explosives Safety Organization (PESO) license using the land records (Khata-Khesra) of one property but allegedly constructed the warehouse at a different location.
The alleged irregularity came to light after the actual landowner, Shivam Kumar Bharti, submitted a written complaint to the district administration seeking an investigation. Following the complaint, authorities have begun examining the relevant records. If the allegations are found to be true, the case could involve violations of government regulations, alleged document manipulation, and non-compliance with mandatory safety norms.
Complaint Brings Alleged Irregularities to Light
According to the complaint submitted to the administration, Shivam Kumar Bharti alleged that his land details were used by the gas agency to secure approvals from the oil company and the concerned authorities. However, the warehouse was never constructed on his property.
Instead, he claims, the warehouse was built and is being operated at another location while official approval documents continue to reference his land.
Calling it a serious act of fraud, the complainant has demanded a fair investigation and strict legal action against those found responsible.
What Is a PESO License?
The Petroleum and Explosives Safety Organization (PESO) is a Government of India body responsible for regulating the storage and handling of petroleum products, LPG, and explosive materials.
Any LPG storage facility must comply with prescribed safety standards regarding land location, structural specifications, safety distances, and technical requirements before a license is issued.
If a warehouse has been constructed at a location different from the one approved in the license, it could constitute a violation of regulatory and safety norms.
Landowner Levels Serious Allegations
Shivam Kumar Bharti said he became aware of the issue only after examining official records.
According to him, the Khata-Khesra details of his property were mentioned in licensing documents, even though the actual warehouse was operating elsewhere.
He further alleged that his land details were used without his consent and requested the administration to verify all official records and take legal action if any irregularities are established.
Preliminary Investigation Begins
Following the written complaint, district authorities have initiated a preliminary inquiry.
Officials are reportedly examining land records, ownership documents, licensing approvals, and the actual location of the LPG warehouse.
The investigation is expected to determine whether the warehouse was constructed at the same site for which approvals were granted or whether there is a discrepancy between the licensed location and the existing facility.
Role of Multiple Departments May Be Examined
The investigation could extend beyond the gas agency itself.
If evidence of document manipulation or misrepresentation is found, officials involved in the licensing and approval process may also come under scrutiny.
Experts point out that LPG warehouses receive approvals only after detailed site inspections and compliance with safety standards. Therefore, any mismatch between the approved site and the actual warehouse location would require a thorough investigation.
Safety Concerns Raised
LPG storage facilities are required to meet stringent safety standards to minimize risks to nearby residents.
Local residents have expressed concern that if the warehouse is indeed operating from an unauthorized location, it could pose significant safety risks to surrounding communities.
Many have urged authorities to conduct both technical and safety inspections as part of the investigation.
Local Residents Demand Transparency
The allegations have generated widespread discussion in the area.
Residents say that if the complaint proves to be true, it would represent a serious breach of administrative procedures and regulatory compliance.
They have called on the administration to conduct an impartial investigation and ensure that no violations are overlooked.
Documents to Be Thoroughly Examined
Investigators are expected to examine land ownership records, approval documents, site maps, inspection reports, company permissions, and other official records.
Authorities may also carry out a physical verification of the warehouse site to compare it with the location specified in the licensing documents.
If discrepancies are confirmed, further action will be taken in accordance with applicable laws and available evidence.
Gas Agency Yet to Respond
At the time of writing, Ajay Indane Gas Agency had not issued any official statement regarding the allegations.
Officials have emphasized that no conclusions should be drawn until the investigation is completed and all parties have been given an opportunity to present their case.
The administration has stated that its final decision will be based solely on documentary evidence and the findings of the inquiry.
The alleged irregularities involving land records and the construction of an LPG warehouse in Bhagalpur have raised serious questions about regulatory compliance and the licensing process.
The complainant alleges that approvals were obtained using the records of his property while the warehouse was built elsewhere. Authorities have begun examining the relevant documents and conducting a preliminary investigation.
The outcome of the inquiry will determine whether any violations occurred and whether legal action will be initiated against those found responsible.
