A bizarre incident at Satha Sugar Mill in Aligarh has left officials and the public astounded. Claims have surfaced accusing monkeys of consuming 1100 quintals of sugar, worth approximately Rs 35 lakh. However, departmental officials are being held accountable for the missing sugar, not the monkeys.History of Satha Sugar MillEstablished in 1975, Satha Sugar Mill has been a lifeline for sugarcane farmers in Aligarh and surrounding areas. Despite several closures and operational disruptions, the mill has continually provided hope for farmers. Recently, an astonishing incident has put the mill in the spotlight, as allegations of monkeys consuming vast quantities of sugar have emerged.The Allegations and Initial ReactionsAn audit revealed a shortage of 1100 quintals of sugar, valued at Rs 35 lakh. Following this, officials claimed that monkeys had wreaked havoc at the mill, consuming the missing sugar. This explanation has been met with widespread scepticism and ridicule. An investigative team dismissed the allegations, holding the mill officials responsible instead.Discovery of the ShortageThe audit of Kisan Sahakari Sugar Mills Limited, conducted at Satha Sugar Mill, uncovered the deficit. The report, presented to senior officials, indicated a significant discrepancy in the sugar inventory. Six individuals, including the manager and the accounts officer, were found primarily guilty. The explanation of monkeys consuming the sugar was rejected outright, prompting a thorough investigation.Timeline and Audit ReportThe District Audit Officer of Cooperative Societies and Panchayat Audit recently conducted an audit of the mill. The physical verification of the final stock up to 31 March 2024 showed that the sugar inventory had drastically reduced from 1538.37 quintals in February 2024 to 401.37 quintals by March 2024. The audit cited monkeys and rain as causes for the loss of 1137 quintals of sugar. However, much of the sugar reportedly eaten by monkeys was found within the mill premises, leading to further suspicion.Accountability and Recovery PlansThe inquiry committee has held the departmental officials responsible for the shortage. The Assistant Audit Officer, Vinod Kumar Singh, reported a loss of Rs 35 lakh 24 thousand 700 at the estimated market price of Rs 3100 per quintal. The implicated officials include Principal Manager Rahul Yadav, Chief Account Officer Omprakash, Manager Chemicals Vinod MK Sharma, Accountant Mahipal Singh, Security Officer Dalveer Singh, and Warehouse Keeper Gulab Singh. A report has been submitted to the Sugarcane Commissioner and Deputy Director of the Sugar Mills Association in Lucknow, initiating a departmental inquiry against all accused.Official StatementsDistrict Magistrate of Aligarh, Visakh ji, stated, A case of 1137 quintals of sugar being unaccounted for has come to light. We are seeking a detailed report from the District Sugarcane Officer. Further actions will be determined after a comprehensive investigation.The peculiar case of the missing sugar at Satha Sugar Mill continues to unfold, with officials facing serious allegations of mismanagement. The claims of monkeys consuming sugar have been debunked, placing the responsibility squarely on the shoulders of the mills management. As investigations proceed, the focus remains on ensuring accountability and transparency within the sugar mill operations.
