The Ministry of Civil Aviation has recommended initiating “major penalty” proceedings against the present Joint Director General of Directorate General of Civil Aviation A.K. Sharan.
It has also recommended “minor penalty” proceedings against the Director of Air Worthiness (DAW) R.K. Khanna.
Sources said that if the Ministry’s recommendations are accepted by the Chief Vigilance Commissioner, then Sharan could face dismissal from service or demotion. Similarly, Khanna could be censured or his increments stopped.
The decision to initiate major penalty proceedings against Sharan follows an investigation indicating misuse of power by extending undue favour to Touchwood Entertainment in obtaining permission for a flying training academy in Raipur.
It is alleged that he overlooked observations and similar deficiencies made in at least two reports and granted approval for imparting flying training to Touchwood Entertainment.
It is also alleged that Sharan facilitated the issuance of a commercial pilot licence to his daughter, Rashmi Sharan, who was not eligible. The actions for which he is being prosecuted were committed when he was functioning as Deputy Director General (Training and Licencing).
Action is being proposed against Khanna for grant of permission to Sharan’s daughter to appear in six special session examinations to clear three papers. It is alleged that she was not eligible to appear for these.