GHMC Engineer Arrested in Hyderabad for Demanding Rs 15 Lakh Bribe
In a significant crackdown on corruption within municipal administration, the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) has arrested a superintending engineer from the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC). The arrest occurred in the Kukatpally zone following allegations that the official demanded and accepted a substantial bribe in exchange for clearing pending bills.
Details of the Bribery Case
The prime accused, identified as P Chinna Reddy, was approached by a civil contractor who sought to clear arrears exceeding Rs 1.4 crore for work related to cleaning a lake. According to ACB officials, Chinna Reddy was responsible for verifying the executed works by the complainant. In a blatant abuse of power, he demanded a bribe to process and forward the contractor's bill to the zonal commissioner for approval.
The bribe demand was initially set at Rs 30 lakh, with the accused accepting an installment of Rs 15 lakh through an outsourced computer operator, B Praveen Kumar. This intermediary role highlights the organized nature of the corruption scheme, involving multiple parties to facilitate the illegal transaction.
Arrest and Legal Proceedings
Following thorough investigation, ACB sleuths apprehended both Chinna Reddy and Praveen Kumar. The officials confirmed that the two accused have been formally arrested and will be presented before the Special Judge for SPE & ACB cases. This step underscores the seriousness with which authorities are treating such corruption allegations, aiming to uphold integrity in public service.
The case has been registered under the Prevention of Corruption Act, which carries stringent penalties for those found guilty of soliciting or accepting bribes. This legal framework is designed to deter corrupt practices and ensure accountability among government officials.
Broader Implications for Hyderabad
This incident sheds light on ongoing challenges in municipal governance in Hyderabad, particularly within the GHMC. Corruption in bill clearance processes not only undermines public trust but also hampers development projects and fair business practices. The arrest serves as a reminder of the vigilance required to combat such malpractices in urban administration.
As the investigation progresses, it is expected to reveal further details about the extent of corruption and potential involvement of other officials. The ACB's proactive stance in this case may encourage more whistleblowers to come forward, fostering a cleaner administrative environment in the city.
