The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has arrested a Commissioner of Income Tax (Exemptions), Hyderabad, and four others for allegedly demanding and accepting a bribe of ₹70 lakh to influence the outcome of an appeal filed by a private party. The Commissioner is also reported to hold additional charges of Appeals Unit-8 and Unit-7 under the Principal Chief Commissioner of Income Tax, Hyderabad.
The operation unfolded on May 9, 2025, after a formal case was registered by the CBI based on credible allegations of systematic corruption involving middlemen and senior officials from the Income Tax department.
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₹70 Lakh Bribe Paid, Middleman Caught in the Act
The investigation gained momentum when CBI officers laid a trap and apprehended a middleman in Mumbai while he was receiving ₹70 lakh in cash from a private individual. The bribe was allegedly intended for the Hyderabad-based Income Tax Commissioner to secure a favourable decision on a pending appeal.
Following the middleman’s arrest, the Commissioner and three other associates were taken into custody in Hyderabad, marking a swift response by the CBI.
Multi-City Searches Yield Incriminating Evidence
The arrests triggered a larger investigation spanning 18 locations across Mumbai, Hyderabad, Khammam, Vishakhapatnam, and New Delhi. CBI officials have so far recovered:
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Cash worth ₹69 lakh (approx.), in addition to the ₹70 lakh bribe
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Various incriminating documents and electronic devices
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Evidence linking the accused to the illegal gratification racket
The searches are ongoing as officials work to map the extent of the network and any additional beneficiaries.
Legal Proceedings Underway
The individuals arrested in Mumbai are being presented before the Special Judge for CBI Cases in Mumbai, while those detained in Andhra Pradesh/Telangana are being produced before the competent court in the respective jurisdiction.
The CBI has confirmed that investigations are still underway and more arrests or charges may follow as the case unfolds.
A Stark Reminder of Corruption Within Tax Institutions
This high-profile arrest comes as a reminder of persistent challenges within India’s taxation and revenue administration systems. The misuse of public office for personal enrichment—particularly in appeal-related decision-making—raises serious concerns about institutional integrity and public trust.
The CBI’s swift action demonstrates its commitment to combating corruption at all levels and sends a strong signal to government officials misusing their positions of authority.