Has the CBI Taken a Stand Against Corruption in Varanasi?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
In a significant crackdown on corruption, the CBI has apprehended a Central Ground Water Board accountant in Varanasi for soliciting bribes. This case highlights the ongoing fight against graft within government offices and the importance of accountability in public service.
Key Takeaways
- CBI's action against corruption in Varanasi is a significant move.
- Mukesh Ranjan Gupta faces serious allegations of bribery.
- The case underscores the importance of accountability in government service.
- Public sector corruption impacts trust in institutions.
- Legal frameworks like the Prevention of Corruption Act are vital for tackling such issues.
Varanasi, July 8 (NationPress) In a decisive move against corruption in Varanasi, the CBI has initiated action against an accountant from the Central Ground Water Board for allegedly soliciting bribes under the guise of processing his colleagues' allowance reimbursements, as disclosed by an official on Tuesday.
The accused, Mukesh Ranjan Gupta, who serves as the Assistant Account Officer at CGWB in Varanasi, was charged after a complaint was filed by a colleague who reported being asked for a bribe of Rs 5,000 to approve his travel allowance claim.
The complainant, Chaturanan Trivedi, detailed that Gupta threatened him with an investigation if he did not comply with the bribe request. Trivedi, working as an Assistant Driller (ADCM) in CGWB at Khand-3, Dindayal Bunkar Seva Kendre (TFC), Bada Lalpur, Varanasi, stated that his travel allowance bill for January 2025 had been withheld by Gupta.
The CBI FIR noted that Gupta had set a deadline of July 5 for Trivedi to pay the bribe to release the TA bill.
The FIR, dated July 3, indicated that the complainant asserted that failure to pay the demanded bribe would result in an inquiry into the TA Bill, withholding of payment, and possible transfer of the complainant.
Following discreet verification of the complaint, the CBI confirmed that there was sufficient evidence supporting Gupta's demand for an undue advantage of Rs 5,000.
The report from the CBI stated, "The verified details suggest a prima facie case of an offense under Section 7 of the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988 (as amended in 2018) against Mukesh Ranjan Gupta, Assistant Account Officer, Central Ground Water Board, Varanasi, UP."
Consequently, a Regular Case has been registered and assigned to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB), Lucknow for further investigation.
Point of View
It is crucial for our institutions to uphold integrity and transparency. The CBI's action in Varanasi represents a step towards ensuring accountability in public service, reinforcing the message that corrupt practices will not be tolerated.
NationPress
22/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the accusation against Mukesh Ranjan Gupta?
Mukesh Ranjan Gupta, an accountant at CGWB, was accused of soliciting a bribe of Rs 5,000 to clear a colleague's travel allowance bill.
What action did the CBI take?
The CBI registered a case against Gupta based on a colleague's complaint and initiated an investigation into the matter.
Why is this case significant?
This case highlights the ongoing efforts to combat corruption within government institutions and ensures accountability among public servants.
What law is applicable in this case?
The case falls under Section 7 of the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988, as amended in 2018.
What are the consequences of such corruption?
Corruption undermines public trust, hampers effective governance, and can lead to severe penalties for those involved, including legal action.
