In a decisive crackdown on corruption, a patwari in Jammu and Kashmir’s Budgam district was arrested red-handed while accepting a Rs 10,000 bribe. The incident, which unfolded on Thursday, highlights the ongoing vigilance of anti-corruption agencies in the region.
The accused, identified as a revenue official responsible for land records in the area, was nabbed by the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) team following a tip-off. The complainant had approached the patwari to expedite a mutation process for his agricultural land. Instead of performing his duties, the official demanded Rs 10,000 as illegal gratification.
ACB officials laid a trap and caught the patwari in the act during a sting operation at his office. The bribe money was recovered from his possession, and he was immediately taken into custody. A case has been registered under the Prevention of Corruption Act, with further investigations underway to uncover any larger network of graft.
This arrest comes amid heightened efforts by the Jammu and Kashmir administration to root out corruption from government departments, particularly in revenue services where bribery is rampant. Locals in Budgam have long complained about delays and demands for bribes in land-related matters, making this a significant victory for transparency.
Authorities have assured the public that such operations will continue relentlessly. The patwari has been suspended pending inquiry, and the ACB is probing his past dealings for additional irregularities. This case serves as a stern warning to corrupt officials across the Union Territory.