The Jammu and Kashmir Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) caught two officials from the Power Development Department red-handed on Wednesday while they were accepting a bribe of Rs 50,000 at Sempora, located on the outskirts of Srinagar. This ongoing investigation reflects significant concerns regarding corruption in local government.
Who Were the Arrested Officials?
The arrested individuals were identified as a Junior Engineer and a Section Officer, both working in the Electric Division Panthachowk. They were taken into custody after an ACB team successfully laid a trap based on a tip-off regarding their illicit activities.
Bribe Acceptance and Arrest
The two officials were apprehended while they were allegedly demanding and receiving the bribe amount. An ACB officer confirmed, “Both the officials were trapped and arrested red-handed while accepting the bribe.” The bribe money was seized immediately again, witnessed by independent observers, ensuring transparency in the process.
Ongoing Investigations Into Corruption
Following their arrest, both officials have been taken into custody, and a comprehensive investigation is underway. The primary goal is to uncover the full extent of corruption and determine if additional officials are complicit in these illicit practices. The ACB is thoroughly examining the Electric Division Panthachowk as they suspect a larger network of corrupt activities.
Encouraging Public Involvement Against Corruption
The ACB is actively urging citizens to report any instances of corruption in their communities. With a commitment to accountability, they promised to take strict action against individuals found guilty, irrespective of their position or rank within the department. Reports of other ongoing operations are also emerging, indicating that similar investigations may be on the horizon.
Corruption in public service remains a persistent issue, and the ACB’s actions signal a commitment to transparency and integrity within government departments. As the public fosters a culture of vigilance, more citizens are encouraged to come forward with information that can help combat corruption in Jammu and Kashmir.
