A revenue inspector in Byadgi taluk, Haveri district, Karnataka, was trapped by the Lokayukta police on Saturday while accepting a bribe of Rs 12,000. The officer had demanded the money from two residents to make changes in their agricultural land records.
Complaint and Trap Operation
The complainants, Nagaraj Olekar and Sushilamma Kotihal, residents of Kasambi village in Byadgi taluk, alleged that the revenue inspector had sought Rs 12,000 to update and alter their land records. Following their complaint, the Lokayukta police set up a trap and caught the inspector red-handed while accepting the bribe amount.
Legal Action Underway
According to Lokayukta officials, the inspector has been booked under the Prevention of Corruption Act. Further investigation is ongoing to ascertain if there were any other instances of bribery involving the same officer. The arrest comes as part of the Lokayukta's continued efforts to curb corruption in government departments, particularly in revenue offices where land-related grievances are common.
Impact on Public Trust
Incidents of bribery in land record modifications erode public trust in the administration. The swift action by the Lokayukta in this case sends a strong signal to corrupt officials. Local residents have welcomed the arrest, hoping it will deter similar practices in the future.
