Head constable Somashekhar, attached to the Pulakeshinagar traffic police station in Bengaluru, was suspended on Sunday after he was caught accepting a bribe of Rs 5,000 from a lorry driver. The suspension was ordered by senior police officials following a preliminary inquiry.
Allegations and Action
According to police sources, the lorry driver had filed a complaint with the anti-corruption wing, alleging that Somashekhar demanded the money to avoid issuing a challan for a traffic violation. A trap was laid, and the constable was allegedly caught red-handed accepting the bribe. He has been placed under suspension pending a detailed departmental inquiry under the Karnataka Civil Services Rules.
Impact and Procedure
This incident highlights ongoing efforts to curb corruption within the city's traffic police. The suspension is part of a zero-tolerance policy towards bribery. Further investigation will determine if any other officers were involved. The driver has been thanked for coming forward and cooperating with the authorities. The departmental proceedings are expected to conclude within three months, and Somashekhar may face dismissal if found guilty.
