Bihar Vigilance Unit Nabs Officials in Bribery Case Linked to Irrigation Scheme
The Special Vigilance Unit (SVU) of Bihar has made significant arrests in a corruption case involving government officials in Kaimur district. On Thursday, the SVU took into custody two officials from the land conservation-cum-project implementation unit in Bhabhua for allegedly accepting a bribe of Rs20,000.
Details of the Arrest and Accused Officials
The arrested individuals have been identified as Ravishankar Ram, who served as the assistant director, and Anjani Kumar, an engineering expert. Both were apprehended following a formal complaint lodged by local residents Umesh Kumar and Arvind Kumar from Aghora in Kaimur.
According to the complainants, the accused officials had initially demanded a total bribe of Rs30,000 for processing payments related to work completed under the Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayi Yojana (PMKSY). The complainants revealed that they had already paid Rs10,000 as part of this illegal demand, with the remaining Rs20,000 being sought for the release of legitimate payments.
Legal Proceedings and Investigation Status
The SVU has registered a formal case against the accused under Section 7 of the Prevention of Corruption Act, which deals with public servants taking gratification other than legal remuneration. An official statement from the SVU confirmed that both arrested officials will be presented before the Special Court (Vigilance) in Patna on Friday.
The investigation remains active, with authorities pursuing further legal action. The SVU emphasized its commitment to tackling corruption in government schemes, particularly those aimed at agricultural development like the PMKSY.
Broader Implications for Governance and Anti-Corruption Efforts
This case highlights ongoing challenges in implementing central government schemes at the grassroots level. The PMKSY, a flagship irrigation program designed to enhance farm productivity, has unfortunately become entangled in corruption allegations in this instance.
The swift action by the SVU demonstrates Bihar's strengthened vigilance mechanisms against corrupt practices. Such arrests serve as a warning to officials who might exploit their positions for personal gain, especially when dealing with welfare schemes intended for public benefit.
