Chandigarh, June 23 (KNC): The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has arrested senior Haryana cadre IAS officer Pankaj Agarwal in connection with an alleged large-scale embezzlement of government funds, marking a significant development in one of the state’s biggest financial fraud investigations.

According to official sources, the arrest follows the agency’s ongoing probe into the suspected diversion of hundreds of crores of rupees belonging to various government departments and institutions. Investigators are examining allegations that public funds were illegally routed through private banking channels and misused, resulting in substantial losses to the government exchequer.

The arrest comes after the CBI intensified its investigation into the financial irregularities, which allegedly involved unauthorized transfers and questionable banking transactions linked to government accounts. The agency has already carried out multiple searches and arrested several accused, including bank officials and other individuals allegedly connected to the scam.

Sources familiar with the investigation said the fraud was executed through a well-coordinated network that facilitated the diversion and utilization of public money. Earlier, suspended IAS officer Ram Kumar Singh and several others were also arrested in the case, while the involvement of additional officials remains under scrutiny.

Officials said the Haryana Government had previously granted sanction to investigate and question multiple IAS officers under the Prevention of Corruption Act, enabling the agency to widen the scope of the probe.

The CBI is currently examining financial records, administrative approvals, banking documents and official communications to establish accountability and determine the full extent of the alleged fraud.

Investigators indicated that the inquiry remains at a crucial stage, with further arrests and significant disclosures likely as evidence continues to emerge. Authorities are also assessing the overall financial impact of the alleged scam and identifying those responsible for the suspected misuse of public funds.

Senior Haryana IAS officer Pankaj Agarwal arrested by CBI.Case relates to alleged diversion of government funds through private banking networks.Several bank officials and other accused already arrested.Haryana Government had sanctioned investigation against multiple officers.More arrests and major revelations expected as investigation progresses.(KNC)