Why Did a Special CBI Court Attach the Noida Flats of Former EPFO Official?
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Synopsis
In an unprecedented move, a Special CBI Court in Ghaziabad has ordered the attachment of two flats owned by ex-EPFO officer Brajesh Ranjan Jha due to alleged disproportionate assets. This case unveils significant corruption within public services, raising questions about accountability and transparency.
Key Takeaways
- CBI Court's action signifies a strong stance against corruption.
- Disproportionate assets investigations are critical for public accountability.
- Public trust is eroded by corrupt practices.
- Transparency in governance is essential for justice.
- Continued vigilance is necessary to combat corruption.
Ghaziabad, June 27 (NationPress) A Special CBI Court located in Ghaziabad has mandated the seizure of two Noida apartments belonging to former EPFO officer Brajesh Ranjan Jha in a case concerning Disproportionate Assets, as confirmed by an official statement.
The Special Judge from the Anti-Corruption Branch of the CBI issued an interim order for the property attachment under Section 3 of the Criminal Law Amendment Ordinance of 1944.
At the time of the investigation, Jha served as an Enforcement Officer/Accounts Officer at the EPFO Regional Office in Noida when the federal agency opened a case against him on January 29, 2024.
The investigation uncovered that this public servant had accumulated Disproportionate Assets totaling Rs 86.37 lakh (153 percent) within the assessment period from October 1, 2010 to August 13, 2020.
Additionally, it was found that during this timeframe, Jha had invested in two Noida flats that exceeded his known income sources.
The chargesheet regarding this case was filed on December 20, 2024 against Jha.
Earlier this month, the CBI apprehended an EPFO official in Odisha who allegedly accepted a bribe of Rs 10,000 from a chartered accountant to facilitate the approval of applications connected to two companies.
Anil Rath, a Senior Social Security Assistant (SSSA) at the EPFO Regional Office in Berhampur, District Ganjam, was reportedly pressuring the complainant by stalling the approval process, as stated by an official.
A case was initiated against Rath on June 12, based on a complaint submitted by Suraj Kumar Dash.
Rath faces charges of soliciting illicit benefits/bribes as a public servant under the Prevention of Corruption Act and conspiracy under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS).
He was alleged to have demanded a bribe of Rs 10,000 to approve the Authorized Signatory Application for two employers, namely Jai Jagannath Infratech and Uttam Padhi, on the EPFO Portal.
Dash indicated that Rath had repeatedly rejected the application between March and May due to claims of incomplete documentation.
Point of View
I believe this case underscores the necessity for stringent accountability measures within public institutions. The actions of individuals like Brajesh Ranjan Jha not only tarnish the reputation of their offices but also erode public trust. We must advocate for transparency and integrity in governance to ensure justice prevails.
NationPress
27/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What led to the attachment of the Noida flats?
The flats were attached due to allegations of disproportionate assets owned by former EPFO officer Brajesh Ranjan Jha, which exceeded his known income sources.
What is the significance of the Criminal Law Amendment Ordinance?
The Criminal Law Amendment Ordinance allows for the attachment of properties believed to be acquired through corrupt practices, ensuring that public servants are held accountable.
Who filed the case against Anil Rath?
The case against Anil Rath was filed based on a complaint from Suraj Kumar Dash, who accused Rath of demanding a bribe to approve applications.
