Delhi Police ASI Apprehended by CBI in Rs 10 Lakh Bribery Scandal Over Property Dispute
In a significant crackdown on corruption, a Delhi Police assistant sub-inspector (ASI) was arrested by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on Tuesday while accepting a bribe of Rs 10 lakh. The bribe was intended to settle a property dispute in South Delhi's Kailash Colony, highlighting ongoing issues of misconduct within law enforcement.
Details of the Bribery Case and Arrest
The ASI, identified as Sunder Pal Singh, who is posted at the C R Park police station, was caught red-handed during a meticulously planned trap by the CBI. According to officials, the Rs 10 lakh was part of a larger Rs 25 lakh bribe that Singh had demanded from Prem Sood, a legal consultant and resident involved in the property conflict.
The CBI initiated the investigation after receiving a formal complaint from Sood on February 7. Sood alleged that Singh had coerced him into selling his property and introduced Davinder Salwan as a buyer. Although Rs 1.5 crore was credited to Sood's account, the transaction remained incomplete as Salwan failed to transfer the full amount, leading to the dispute's escalation.
Threats and Legal Manipulation by the Accused
When the initial property deal collapsed, Singh reportedly began threatening Sood with false legal actions to extort the bribe. This intimidation tactic underscores the abuse of power by the officer, who exploited his position for personal gain. The CBI's swift action in laying a trap resulted in Singh's arrest while he was actively demanding and accepting the illegal payment.
A CBI spokesperson confirmed in a statement that the arrest was made during the act of accepting the bribe, emphasizing the agency's commitment to combating corruption. The FIR details that the dispute centered on a property in Kailash Colony, where Sood resides on the first floor, further complicating the legal and ethical dimensions of the case.
Broader Implications and Ongoing Investigation
This incident raises serious concerns about integrity within the Delhi Police and the need for stringent anti-corruption measures. The CBI continues to investigate the full extent of Singh's involvement, including any potential collusion with other parties. Such cases serve as a stark reminder of the challenges in maintaining transparency and accountability in public service.
As the legal proceedings unfold, this arrest is expected to prompt reviews of internal protocols and oversight mechanisms to prevent similar occurrences in the future. The property dispute, now entangled in a bribery scandal, remains a focal point for authorities seeking to uphold justice and the rule of law.
