The Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) on Wednesday arrested a junior engineer posted under the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) from his government residence in Deoghar district for allegedly accepting Rs 5,000 as a bribe. The accused, identified as Santosh Prasad, was serving in Dindakoli panchayat under Karon block.
Complaint and Allegations
ACB sources revealed that Bhim Kumar Rana (29), a resident of Lakarachara village under the Karon police station limits in Deoghar district, filed a written complaint. The complaint alleged that an MGNREGA scheme for the construction of a trench-cum-bund on his private land had been sanctioned at an estimated cost of Rs 45,000. Rana completed the work and subsequently received Rs 41,000 as payment. However, Prasad allegedly demanded Rs 7,000 for the release of the final payment and processing of the master roll. Unwilling to pay the illegal gratification, Rana approached the ACB.
ACB Action and Investigation
Acting on the complaint, the ACB laid a trap to catch Prasad red-handed while accepting the bribe. The operation led to his arrest from his government residence. An ACB official stated, "A trap was laid to nab Prasad red-handed. Further investigation is underway." The ACB has seized the bribe amount and is conducting a thorough probe into the matter.
Background of the Case
This case highlights the persistent issue of corruption in rural employment schemes. MGNREGA aims to provide livelihood security to rural households, but instances of bribery undermine its objectives. The ACB's swift action demonstrates its commitment to curbing such malpractices. Further details are awaited as the investigation progresses.
