The Mumbai Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) has launched a major probe after accusing Additional Sessions Judge Ejazuddin Salauddin Kazi of being behind a ₹15 lakh bribery scheme. The case came to light when a court clerk, Chandrakant Vasudeo, was arrested on charges of accepting the bribe to secure a favourable verdict in a commercial land dispute.
The Alleged Scheme
According to the ACB, the complainant’s wife had earlier filed a writ in the Bombay High Court alleging forceful possession of company property. The case was later moved to the civil sessions court in Mazgaon, where Judge Kazi presides.
Vasudeo reportedly demanded ₹25 lakh for manipulating the outcome: ₹10 lakh for himself and ₹15 lakh “for the judge.” After repeated demands, the amount was negotiated down to ₹15 lakh.
On a tip-off, the ACB laid a trap. On November 11, Vasudeo was caught red-handed while accepting the ₹15 lakh payment. According to officials, immediately after taking the cash, he called Judge Kazi to inform him — and the judge allegedly expressed his agreement.
While the clerk is in custody, Judge Kazi has been declared a wanted accused by the ACB.
Serious Implications for Judicial Integrity
This case has sparked outrage and major concern over judicial corruption. Legal experts say such allegations, if proven, strike at the heart of public trust in the justice system.
The ACB has registered charges under the Prevention of Corruption Act, and the investigation is ongoing. Authorities are now working to trace the full chain of communications and financial transactions to substantiate the case against both the clerk and the judge.
