In a recent crackdown on corruption, the Karnataka Lokayukta police have apprehended a health department officer and a laboratory technician on charges of accepting a bribe. The arrests were made following a complaint lodged by a citizen who alleged that the duo demanded and accepted a bribe of Rs 10,000 to issue a birth certificate.
Details of the Arrest
The accused have been identified as Shankar, a health department officer, and Ravi, a lab technician, both attached to a government health facility in the state. According to Lokayukta officials, the complainant had approached the health center to obtain a birth certificate for his child. The accused allegedly demanded the bribe to expedite the process.
Acting on the complaint, the Lokayukta police set up a trap and caught the duo red-handed while accepting the bribe amount. The entire operation was conducted under the supervision of senior Lokayukta officials.
Legal Action and Investigation
Both accused have been booked under the Prevention of Corruption Act and are currently in judicial custody. The Lokayukta police have initiated a detailed investigation to ascertain if there are any other individuals involved in the bribery racket. Officials have also urged citizens to come forward with any information regarding corrupt practices in government offices.
The arrest has sent a strong message across government departments, emphasizing the Lokayukta's commitment to rooting out corruption. Health department authorities have assured full cooperation with the investigation and stated that strict action will be taken against any employee found guilty of misconduct.
This incident highlights the persistent issue of bribery in public service delivery, despite various anti-corruption measures. The Lokayukta has reiterated its zero-tolerance policy towards corruption and encouraged citizens to report any instances of bribery through its helpline.
