Odisha ASI Receives Three-Year Rigorous Imprisonment in Bribery Conviction
In a significant verdict against corruption, the special vigilance court in Phulbani, Kandhamal district, has delivered a stern judgment in a bribery case involving a police officer. On Wednesday, the court sentenced an assistant sub-inspector (ASI) to three years of rigorous imprisonment, marking a strong stance against unethical practices within law enforcement.
Details of the Sentence and Financial Penalty
Judge Rajesh Dash not only imposed the prison term but also levied a fine of Rs 20,000 on the convict, identified as Nabin Kumar Satapathy, a 56-year-old resident of Butapalli in Boudh district. According to Special Public Prosecutor V V Ramdash, failure to pay this fine will result in an additional four months of imprisonment for Satapathy, who is currently employed in Deogarh. Following the judgment, the convict was released on a bail bond of Rs 50,000, supported by two sureties, pending any appeals.
Background of the Bribery Incident
The case stems from an incident where Satapathy, while serving as an ASI at the Kiakata police station in Boudh, allegedly accepted a bribe of Rs 8,000. Sources indicate that the bribe was taken from a complainant with the promise to relax sections imposed in an FIR and to avoid arresting the complainant's brother and uncle in a related case. This corrupt act was uncovered when vigilance officials set a trap at the Boudh bus stand, leading to the recovery of the bribe money and the registration of a case against Satapathy on July 25, 2023.
Legal Proceedings and Witness Testimonies
The court's decision came after a thorough legal process, which included recording statements from 12 witnesses and verifying relevant documents. Special Public Prosecutor Ramdash emphasized that the vigilance department will pursue further disciplinary action against Satapathy, underscoring the commitment to accountability within the police force. This case highlights the ongoing efforts to combat corruption and uphold integrity in public service across Odisha.
