Four-year and three-year imprisonment awarded in ₹1.25 lakh graft conspiracy linked to loan processing; Court reiterates zero tolerance on corruption.
Ghaziabad — In a significant judgment aimed at cracking down on corruption in public offices, a Special CBI Court in Ghaziabad on Thursday convicted and sentenced a Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC) official and a private person for demanding and accepting illegal gratification in lieu of clearing a loan application.
The court awarded four years’ rigorous imprisonment and a fine of ₹50,000 to Binod Kumar, serving as an Assistant at KVIC’s Meerut Divisional Office during the period in question. His co-accused, Surendra Khurana alias Sunny Khurana, a private facilitator, was sentenced to three years’ imprisonment and a fine of ₹10,000.
The prosecution, led by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), established that both accused engaged in a corrupt conspiracy to extort money from a beneficiary seeking loan support under a government scheme.
The Bribe Demand: A Loan and Criminal Collusion
According to the CBI case records, Binod Kumar served as District Coordinator for Meerut and Shamli between 21 November 2016 and 15 September 2017. During this tenure, he allegedly conspired with Khurana to extract ₹1,25,000 in bribe from a complainant who had filed an application for a ₹15,57,600 loan intended for setting up a cement tiles manufacturing unit.
Investigators found that the application was not eligible under set norms but was still offered “processing” in exchange for money, highlighting a clear abuse of official authority for personal financial gain.
CBI Action: Swift Investigation to Courtroom Conviction
Acting upon a written complaint, CBI registered a case on 15 September 2017 against the two accused. After completing a detailed probe, the agency filed a charge sheet on 13 November 2017 before the Ghaziabad Special Court. Charges were formally framed on 15 January 2018, setting the stage for a full-scale trial.
The prosecution presented documentary evidence and testimonies demonstrating:
- Abuse of public office for pecuniary advantage
- Demand and acceptance of illegal gratification
- A planned conspiracy to influence a loan approval through corrupt means
The court accepted the evidence as credible and consistent, holding both accused guilty under relevant sections of the law.
Court’s Observation: Public Trust Cannot Be Exploited
In its order, the court underscored that exploitation of citizens seeking benefits under welfare-oriented schemes erodes the foundation of democratic governance. It asserted that any such conduct by public officials requires strict punitive action to deter similar practices elsewhere.
The court noted that corruption in institutions like KVIC — established to boost rural employment and cottage industries — not only harms public interest but also undermines the credibility of government initiatives.
Broader Implications for Governance and Public Schemes
Experts point out that the case exposes vulnerabilities in loan-linked schemes and the risks posed by intermediaries acting as unofficial “gatekeepers”.
The verdict reinforces the need for:
- Greater transparency in loan approvals
- Stricter monitoring of field staff and coordinators
- Public awareness to report corruption without fear
Such measures are crucial to ensure genuine beneficiaries receive assistance without coercion or illicit demands.
CBI Reaffirms Commitment to Anti-Corruption Drive
Following the judgment, CBI reiterated its firm stance against graft involving public servants and assured continued action under its anti-corruption mandate. The agency also encouraged citizens to come forward with complaints regarding any illegal demand for money in public service delivery.
Conclusion
The conviction sends a strong message that no individual misusing public authority will be spared, regardless of rank or role. For entrepreneurs and beneficiaries dependent on government-supported schemes, the ruling provides reassurance that justice will prevail and that the legal system remains committed to safeguarding their rights.
