Mumbai Court Clerk's Bail Plea Opposed in High-Profile Bribery Case
The Mumbai Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) has strongly opposed the bail application of Chandrakant Vasudev, a clerk-cum-typist arrested for allegedly accepting a bribe of Rs 15 lakh. The ACB informed the court that Vasudev claimed the money was meant for an Additional Sessions Judge, with whom he reportedly shared frequent WhatsApp communication after court hours.
WhatsApp Calls and Cordial Relationship Under Scanner
During the investigation, the probe agency uncovered evidence of WhatsApp calls between the clerk and the judge that occurred outside of regular working hours. In his defence, Vasudev stated that he had been assigned to the judge's court for approximately a year and that they maintained a cordial professional relationship. He further explained that the judge often assisted him with personal matters, which accounted for their communication.
However, the ACB found this justification unconvincing. The bureau's remand plea had previously named the judge as a wanted accused, intensifying the scrutiny on their interactions.
The Bribery Allegations and Recorded Evidence
The case originated from a land dispute that was being heard in the court of the judge in question. The complainant alleged that an associate was approached by Vasudev last month during a court hearing. The ACB claims that the bribe was demanded by the clerk explicitly on behalf of the judge.
In a significant development, the ACB revealed that after Vasudev's arrest, a WhatsApp call was made from his phone to the judge. During this conversation, which was recorded in the presence of independent witnesses, the clerk reportedly informed the judge about receiving the bribe amount. The judge allegedly acknowledged the receipt and instructed Vasudev to deliver the money to his residence.
The ACB has emphasized the need for a deeper investigation, specifically wanting to question the judge about these communications and allegations.
ACB's Stance on Bail and Next Steps
In its response submitted on Wednesday, the ACB outlined its reasons for opposing bail. The agency argued that releasing Vasudev could lead to tampering with evidence, especially since witness statements are still pending. The prosecution stressed that the probe is at a crucial stage and requires unfettered access to all potential evidence.
The court has scheduled the next hearing on Vasudev's bail plea for Monday. The outcome will likely influence the subsequent course of action against the judicial officer named in the case, marking a significant moment in Mumbai's ongoing fight against corruption within the legal system.
