In a significant crackdown on corruption at the grassroots level, the Haryana Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) on Tuesday arrested a patwari in the Hansi area of Hisar district. The official was allegedly caught accepting a bribe of Rs 5,000 from a local farmer.
The Complaint That Triggered the Sting
The operation was set into motion following a formal complaint by a farmer hailing from Bhatla village. The farmer had approached the patwari, identified as Ajit, to get a land map and deed prepared. According to the victim's account, the patwari demanded a total sum of Rs 9,500 for the service. The farmer had already paid Rs 4,500 but grew suspicious when the official insisted on the remaining amount as an illicit payment.
How the ACB Trap Was Laid
After verifying the complaint, the ACB team devised a plan to catch the corrupt official in the act. Sources revealed that the patwari, Ajit, engaged an intermediary named Govind to collect the remaining bribe money on his behalf. As part of the meticulously planned trap, the marked currency notes were handed over to Govind. The ACB team swiftly moved in and conducted a raid at the moment of the transaction.
Both Ajit, the patwari, and Govind, the intermediary, were immediately taken into custody. The entire operation was conducted under the supervision of Hansi SDM Rajesh Khoth, who served as the duty magistrate and remained present throughout the proceedings to ensure legal sanctity.
Evidence Collection and Legal Process
The ACB team was thorough in its investigation at the scene. Forensic evidence was collected from the spot to build a strong case against the accused. Such evidence is crucial for prosecution in corruption cases. The arrest sends a strong message about the state's zero-tolerance policy towards corruption, especially concerning officials who exploit common citizens like farmers.
This incident highlights the persistent challenges of petty corruption in land and revenue matters in rural areas. It also underscores the importance of vigilance and the role of agencies like the ACB in addressing public grievances against corrupt demands.
