Assam Government Dismisses Forest Ranger Over Rs. 15 Lakh Misappropriation

Assam Government Dismisses Forest Ranger Masharraf Hussain Choudhury Over Misappropriation Charges

Guwahati; March 28, 2025: The Assam government has dismissed Forest Ranger Masharraf Hussain Choudhury from service over charges of misappropriating public funds vide ECF No. 285514/233. The disciplinary action, taken under Rule 7 (vii) of the Assam Services (Discipline & Appeal) Rules, 1964, also disqualifies him from future government employment.

A departmental inquiry found that Choudhury had partially misappropriated government funds amounting to Rs. 15,08,103. However, another charge of obstructing official duties was not proven. The Assam Public Service Commission (APSC) endorsed the government’s decision after reviewing the findings.

Choudhury, who was serving in the Kulsi Range under Kamrup West Division and later in Khanapara Wildlife Range, faced disciplinary proceedings initiated by the Assam Forest Department. An inquiry was conducted by Additional Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (Biodiversity & Climate Change), K.S.V.P. Pavan Kumar, IFS.

The inquiry report confirmed that Choudhury had illegally withdrawn and misused government funds. Following this, the government sought his response to the findings. Despite his denial, the disciplinary authority upheld the charges and decided to dismiss him. Additionally, the government has ordered the recovery of the misappropriated amount from him.

The dismissal order, issued with the approval of the Governor of Assam, marks a strict stand against corruption in the state’s forest department. The Assam government reaffirmed its zero-tolerance policy against financial misconduct in public offices.

With this decision, the departmental proceedings against Choudhury have been officially closed.

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