According to official sources, Devangan is accused of misappropriating ₹14,18,207 collected between the financial years 2022–23 and 2024–25. The amount includes property tax, consolidated tax and user charges recovered from residents but allegedly withheld instead of being credited to the corporation’s accounts. The administration has classified the lapse as a serious case of financial misconduct.

Municipal Commissioner Prakash Kumar Sarve ordered the suspension under Rule 9(1)(b) of the Chhattisgarh Civil Services (Classification, Control and Appeal) Rules, 1966. The suspension came into effect immediately after the completion of a preliminary inquiry based on audit findings. The commissioner has also directed officials to ensure recovery of the entire outstanding amount from the suspended officer.

Officials said the irregularity surfaced during an ongoing internal audit of municipal accounts for the year 2023–24. During scrutiny of records in Zone No. 2, auditors noticed discrepancies between tax collection receipts and the amounts deposited in the civic body’s accounts. A detailed audit trail later confirmed that the funds in question had not been deposited over a prolonged period.

After the audit report was submitted, the municipal commissioner ordered a departmental investigation led by the Joint Director (Finance). Based on the findings of this inquiry, disciplinary action was initiated against Devangan. The corporation has warned that if the amount is not recovered within the stipulated time, a criminal case will be registered against him.

Senior officials said the suspension reflects the administration’s zero-tolerance approach towards corruption and financial indiscipline. “Public money must be accounted for. Any deviation from financial rules will invite strict action,” a senior municipal official said.

The Bilaspur Municipal Corporation has also instructed all zones to re-verify tax collection and deposit records to rule out similar irregularities elsewhere. Additional checks have been ordered to strengthen internal controls and prevent recurrence of such incidents.

The case has triggered concern among civic officials, as revenue inspectors play a key role in tax collection at the ward and zone levels. Authorities said further departmental proceedings will continue against the suspended officer, and responsibility will be fixed once the full inquiry process is completed.