Dhubri Planning Office Accused of Ghost Attendance and Staffing Shortfalls

Guwahati: The Dhubri office of the Town and Country Planning Department sits under a cloud. Allegations of staff shortages and phantom attendance have crippled daily operations. Deputy Director Shantanu Das is at the center of the storm. Sources claim Das has been absent for an extended period despite his signature appearing in the daily register.

The register tells a messy story. Names are missing next to signatures, casting doubt on the entire log. Insiders claim Das has held his post for over three years. Some point to political protection, noting that "political patronage has shielded him from administrative action." These claims remain unverified, and the state government has yet to step in.

Vacancies further choke the office. Critical roles for an Assistant Director, Assistant Engineer, and Junior Engineer sit empty. Residents and staff say this paralysis stops necessary urban planning and infrastructure work. Officials in the department and the Assam government remain silent as questions about governance mount.