Did the CBI Really Arrest a Jharkhand Sub-Post Master for a Rs 20,000 Bribe?
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Synopsis
The CBI's arrest of a Jharkhand Sub-Post Master for a Rs 20,000 bribe raises questions about corruption within public services. This case is part of a larger pattern, as another postal employee in Patna was recently sentenced for similar misconduct, shedding light on the need for accountability in government roles.
Key Takeaways
- The CBI arrested a Sub-Post Master in Jharkhand for demanding a bribe.
- The amount of the demanded bribe was Rs 1,18,000, with an initial acceptance of Rs 20,000.
- Corruption in public services poses a serious threat to public trust.
- Lohra Bhagat was sentenced for drawing salary from two government departments simultaneously.
- Accountability and transparency are crucial in government roles.
Ranchi, July 22 (NationPress) - The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has apprehended a Sub-Post Master in Jharkhand for allegedly accepting a bribe of Rs 20,000 from a commission agent who was responsible for drawing in investors for the postal department's small savings programs, as confirmed by an official on Tuesday.
The investment agent, who had successfully secured deposits amounting to lakhs of rupees, faced a demand from the postal official to split the commission derived from these deposits, according to a CBI spokesperson.
In a dramatic operation, the Sub-Post Master, located in Manoharpur, District West Singhbhum, was caught in the act by the CBI while soliciting and receiving the initial payment of the bribe, which was Rs 20,000.
The case against the accused Sub-Post Master was officially registered on July 21, following a complaint which indicated that he demanded a total bribe of Rs 1,18,000 (comprising 20% of the recurring deposit commission and 75% of the Standardised Agency System (SAS) commission) from the complainant.
After negotiations, the Sub-Post Master conceded to accept the first installment of Rs 20,000 as an illicit advantage.
This incident coincided with the sentencing of another postal employee in Patna, who received a two-year prison term for misconduct.
A Special CBI Court in Patna also sentenced Lohra Bhagat, an accountant for India Post, to rigorous imprisonment for two years and imposed a fine of Rs 1.10 lakh for illegally drawing salary from another government body over a three-year period.
During his tenure from July 2010 to July 2013, Bhagat received a cumulative salary of Rs 3,41,444 from the postal department, along with Rs 14,87,591 in additional expenses, including a monthly lease for a vehicle.
The CBI initiated legal proceedings against Bhagat and others on March 31, 2014.
Point of View
I maintain that transparency and accountability in public service are of utmost importance. The recent arrest of a Sub-Post Master in Jharkhand for bribery is a stark reminder that corruption can undermine public trust. Such actions must be addressed promptly to restore faith in our institutions. We stand firm in advocating for integrity and justice.
NationPress
22/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What led to the arrest of the Jharkhand Sub-Post Master?
The Jharkhand Sub-Post Master was arrested after he allegedly demanded a bribe of Rs 1,18,000 from a commission agent, who reported the incident to the CBI.
What was the bribe amount that the Sub-Post Master accepted?
The Sub-Post Master accepted an initial bribe amount of Rs 20,000.
What are the charges against Lohra Bhagat?
Lohra Bhagat was sentenced to two years in prison for illegally receiving salary from another government department while working for India Post.
What measures are being taken to tackle corruption in government services?
The CBI continues to investigate and take actions against government employees involved in corruption to ensure transparency and accountability.
How can citizens report corruption in public services?
Citizens can report corruption through various government channels, including the CBI's helpline and complaint portals.
