Amaravati, December 26, 2025: An inquiry committee led by Prakasam Joint Collector R Gopala Krishna found evidence of corruption and diversion of funds meant for women's Self-Help Groups (SHGs) under the Mission for Elimination of Poverty in Municipal Areas (MEPMA).
The probe pointed to creation of around 120 bogus or duplicate SHGs, allegedly in collusion with some employees, bankers, community organisers, and resource persons, allowing diversion of crores in loans.
Srihari, who took charge in February 2025, surrendered based on the committee's findings. District Collector P Raja Babu has forwarded the report to senior MEPMA officials, seeking a broader investigation.
Disciplinary action is planned against 10-15 involved staff. In the interim, Bapatla district's MEPMA Project Director Satyapal has been assigned additional charge for Prakasam.
