Chandigarh, Oct. 1 -- {The DC has recommended that the banks involved be de-empanelled}

The Panipat deputy commissioner (DC) suspended the sarpanches of gram panchayats Bal Jattan and Khandra after inquiring into the creation of fixed deposits (FDs) worth Rs.224 crore in private sector banks without the competent authority's approval. The DC also recommended de-empanelment of the involved banks.

HT on September 17 reported the alleged irregularities in how the two Panipat panchayats, Bal Jattan and Khandra, handled public funds and deposited them in private sector banks without approval. Official documents showed the funds were deposited in four private sector banks, one public sector bank, and one co-operative bank. The violation was s...