Anti-Corruption Bureau Cracks Down on Bribery in Baramulla: Lambardar Arrested for Demanding ₹4000 Bribe

The Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) has apprehended Manzoor Ahmad, Lambardar of Kunthbagh village in Baramulla, for allegedly soliciting and accepting a bribe of ₹4000. The complaint, filed by a concerned resident, shed light on the pervasive issue of corruption within local governance structures.

According to official told news agency Press Trust of Kashmir that, the complainant, they applied for building permissions with the Municipal Committee (MC) Baramulla. However, obtaining necessary NOCs and reports from the Patwari of Kunthbagh village proved to be an arduous task. Allegedly, the Patwari delayed the process, prompting a call from Lambardar Ahmad, who claimed to have the required documents in his possession. Ahmad purportedly demanded ₹5000 initially, which was later negotiated down to ₹4000.

Prompted by the complaint, the ACB swiftly initiated legal action, registering a case against both Ahmad and the implicated Patwari under relevant sections of the Prevention of Corruption Act 1988 and IPC Section 120-B.

A trap team, assembled as part of the investigation, caught Ahmad red-handed inside the Tehsil office premises while accepting the bribe. The incriminating evidence, including the bribe money and the requested documents, was seized in the presence of independent witnesses. Ahmad was promptly taken into custody following due legal procedures.

In a further probe, searches were conducted at Ahmad’s residence, and the involvement of other public servants, including the Patwari, is under scrutiny. It is alleged that Ahmad acted as a conduit for bribery within the tehsil office.

The ACB’s swift action underscores its commitment to combating corruption at all levels of administration. As investigations continue, the bureau’s efforts serve as a beacon of hope for citizens, reaffirming the importance of integrity and transparency in public service.