In a significant crackdown on corruption, the Madhya Pradesh Lokayukta's anti-corruption wing arrested a government employee in Dhar district for allegedly demanding a bribe to process a pension file. The incident highlights the persistent issue of graft faced by common citizens, even in matters concerning rightful retirement benefits.
The Complaint That Triggered the Action
The case came to light when Ranjeet, a resident of Dahi in Dhar district, approached the Lokayukta office with a formal complaint. He alleged that his father's retirement dues were being deliberately withheld. His father, Kuwarsingh Vamaniya, had retired from his position as a peon at the CM Rise School in Dahi on July 31, 2025. Despite completing his service, his pension benefits and pending National Pension System (NPS) contributions were not being released.
According to the complaint, the hurdle was an employee in the accounts section. The accused, identified as Dinesh Bhide, who held the post of assistant grade-3 and was in-charge of accounts at the Block Education Officer's office in Dahi, allegedly demanded a sum of Rs 10,000 to process the pension case and release the funds.
The Sting Operation and Arrest
Acting on the complaint filed on November 28, the Lokayukta team first conducted a thorough verification process. The preliminary inquiry substantiated the allegations made by the complainant. Following this confirmation, the stage was set for a trap.
On Tuesday, December 3, a carefully planned operation was executed. The Lokayukta sleuths laid a trap and caught the accused employee, Dinesh Bhide, red-handed inside the Block Education Office in Dahi. He was allegedly accepting the illicit money to clear the pension file. SP Rajesh Sahay confirmed the details of the arrest and the sequence of events.
Legal Repercussions and Ongoing Action
The officials stated that further legal proceedings are underway against the arrested assistant grade employee. He is being charged under the stringent provisions of the Prevention of Corruption (Amendment) Act, 2018. This act prescribes severe punishment for public servants involved in corrupt practices.
This arrest serves as a stern warning to other officials who might exploit their position for personal gain, especially when dealing with the welfare of retired employees. The Lokayukta's prompt action in this case demonstrates its commitment to tackling corruption at the grassroots level in Madhya Pradesh.
