Moradabad / Bareilly: The Vigilance (Anti-Corruption) department of Bareilly arrested a senior accounts officer (Cooperative Societies and Panchayats) in Moradabad on Wednesday while accepting a bribe of ₹50,000. The officer is accused of demanding ₹3 lakh in exchange for carrying out government audits. He was apprehended after accepting the first installment of ₹50,000.
Audit and Bribery Background
According to sources, the officer was assigned the audit of five Gram Panchayats in the district—Dupaida Raniyather, Jagram Pura, Lalpur Titeri, Binawala Hiran Kheda, and Bheet Kheda—for the financial year 2024-25.
Investigations revealed that the officer demanded ₹3 lakh from the complainant in return for completing the audit work. The complainant was unable to pay such a large sum at once. Subsequently, the officer agreed to accept the money in installments, with the first installment fixed at ₹50,000.
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Complaint and Investigation
The complainant immediately filed a written grievance with the Uttar Pradesh Vigilance Department, Bareilly Sector. After a covert investigation confirmed the allegations, the Vigilance team set up a trap for the officer. On Wednesday, as the officer accepted the first installment, he was caught red-handed.
Arrest and Legal Action
The sudden arrest sent shockwaves through the department. The Vigilance team took the officer into custody and transported him to Bareilly, where a case has been registered under the relevant sections, and further legal proceedings are underway.
The department has emphasized that corruption will not be tolerated at any level and that the Vigilance team remains alert to all instances of misconduct. This action is being viewed as a stern warning to other officials and employees.
Impact and Message
Experts note that such actions not only curb corruption but also strengthen discipline and accountability among government employees. The broader implication of these cases lies in their direct link to the transparency and credibility of the public financial system.
The Vigilance Department’s operation also underscores that citizens are encouraged to report corruption at any level. Covert investigations are considered critical to ensuring official accountability and upholding public trust.
Steps to Prevent Corruption
The department has urged all officials and employees to refrain from soliciting or accepting bribes or any undue benefits. Maintaining transparency in audits and financial processes is mandatory.
Analysts suggest that swift and strict action by the Vigilance Department sends a strong message, not only to corrupt officials but also to the general public, affirming that the integrity and protection of the public financial system are being actively enforced.
