CBI takes action against its own corrupt officials in bribery case
May 20, 2024
New Delhi [India], May 20 : The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has taken stringent action against its own officials involved in a bribery case. This action underscores the agency's zero tolerance policy towards corruption and malpractices.
An internal vigilance investigation by the CBI uncovered a conspiracy involving some of its officials, along with officials from State Nursing Colleges and Patwaris in Madhya Pradesh. This led to the registration of a case against those involved, reinforcing CBI's stance that corruption within its ranks will not be tolerated.
In compliance with directions from the High Court, CBI's Anti-Corruption Branch (ACB) in Bhopal had formed seven core teams and several support teams. These teams, composed of CBI officials, representatives from nursing colleges, and Patwaris, were tasked with inspecting nursing colleges across the state to ensure they met the required infrastructural and faculty standards.
During the monitoring process, officials from one of the support teams were found engaging in corrupt activities. It was observed that Inspector Rahul Raj of the CBI, along with other team members, was issuing favorable inspection reports in exchange for bribes. The internal vigilance mechanism swiftly responded, leading to the registration of a case against 23 individuals, including Inspector Rahul Raj, three other CBI officials, and various intermediaries.
On Saturday, Inspector Rahul Raj was caught red-handed accepting a bribe of Rs. 10 lakhs from Anil Bhaskaran and his wife, Suma Anil. Subsequent actions by CBI teams from New Delhi resulted in searches at 31 locations across Bhopal, Indore, Ratlam, and Jaipur. These searches led to the recovery of over Rs. 2.33 crore in cash, four gold bars, 36 digital devices, and more than 150 incriminating documents.
Thirteen individuals have been arrested in connection with the case, including Inspector Rahul Raj, Inspector Sushil Kumar Majoka from MP Police (on attachment with CBI), and intermediaries Om Goswami, Ravi Bhadoria, and Jugal Kishore. Three women were also among those arrested. All arrested individuals have been remanded to CBI custody until May 29, 2024.
In addition to the arrests, CBI has initiated administrative actions against the implicated officials, reaffirming its commitment to eradicating corruption and maintaining the highest standards of conduct within the organization.
The CBI's actions demonstrate a firm commitment to its core values and a robust stance against corruption, regardless of the individuals involved.
