- (1.) We have heard learned counsel for the petitioner and learned Standing Counsel for the state respondents.
(2.) The petitioner who was an elected Pradhan of Gram Panchayat Sahara, Block Sultanganj, District Mainpuri in the year 1995 has approached this Court challenging the order dated 26.5.2001 passed by the District Magistrate, Mainpuri to recover a sum of Rs.24,644.50 as surcharge on account of loss caused to the Gram Panchayat due to financial irregularity. The amount was directed to recovered as arrears of land revenue.
(3.) Factual matrix of the case, in brief, are that the petitioner in his capacity as elected Pradhan got laid down 'Kharanja' in village Nagla Bhajan in the year 1997-98 and in village Hempur and Sahara in the year 1999-2000. A complaint was made by one Shiv Dayal Singh. The Chief Development Officer vide order dated 28.9.1999 appointed the District Agriculture Officer as inquiry officer to inquire into the matter. The District Agriculture Officer, Mainpuri issued a letter dated 01.10.1999 informing the parties 05.10.1999 as the date of inquiry. It has been alleged on behalf of the petitioner that he did not receive any notice, as such, he could not participate in the inquiry, which was held ex-parte, and the inquiry officer submitted a report dated 26.11.1999 to the Chief Development Officer, respondent no. 3.;