The (CBI) has apprehended two officials posted at the Chandausi depot of the (FCI) while allegedly accepting a bribe, in what investigators describe as a case of systematic illegal gratification linked to the clearance of rice consignments.
The accused include the Manager and the Assistant Grade-II officer serving as Depot In-Charge at the FCI Chandausi depot. According to the agency, both were caught red-handed while demanding and accepting ₹30,000 as the first instalment of a larger bribe allegedly sought from a private supplier.
The CBI registered the case on February 11, 2026, based on a complaint filed by a private firm operator. The complainant stated that he had visited the FCI Babrala depot to deposit 16 stacks of rice and was planning to deposit an additional eight stacks in the coming days.
As per the complaint, the Assistant Grade-II (Depot In-Charge) allegedly demanded ₹50,000 to “pass” and clear the initial 16 stacks. Furthermore, he is said to have demanded ₹15,000 per stack for the remaining eight stacks proposed to be deposited. The complainant alleged that he was indirectly warned of possible delays or obstacles in clearance if the payment was not made.
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After conducting preliminary verification of the allegations, the CBI laid a trap. During the trap proceedings, it allegedly emerged that the demand of ₹50,000 was not made by the Depot In-Charge alone but in conspiracy with the Manager of the FCI Chandausi depot.
On February 11, 2026, both accused officials were apprehended while demanding and accepting ₹30,000 as the first instalment of the bribe. Officials said the tainted currency was recovered on the spot, and necessary legal formalities were completed before taking the accused into custody.
Investigators are now examining depot records, stock registers, billing documents and communication exchanges to ascertain whether similar illegal demands were made from other suppliers. The agency is also probing whether the accused acted independently or as part of a broader corrupt practice within the depot’s functioning.
Preliminary findings suggest that the alleged bribe structure involved a fixed “rate” system, with specific amounts linked to the number of stacks cleared. If substantiated, the case could point to an organised pattern of corruption in the handling of food grain consignments.
Legal experts note that corruption cases under the Prevention of Corruption Act hinge on establishing both demand and acceptance of illegal gratification. Trap proceedings, recovery of tainted money and independent witnesses often play a decisive role in securing convictions.
The action is being viewed as a significant step in reinforcing transparency and accountability within public sector undertakings, particularly in sensitive sectors such as food procurement and storage. The Food Corporation of India plays a critical role in maintaining buffer stocks and supporting the public distribution system, making integrity in its operations essential.
The CBI stated that investigation in the case is continuing and that strict action will be taken in accordance with law. Both accused will be produced before the competent court, and further legal proceedings will follow as per due process.
About the author – Rehan Khan is a law student and legal journalist with a keen interest in cybercrime, digital fraud, and emerging technology laws. He writes on the intersection of law, cybersecurity, and online safety, focusing on developments that impact individuals and institutions in India.
