Uttarkashi PWD Surveyor Caught Red-Handed in Bribery Sting Operation
In a significant crackdown on corruption, a Public Works Department (PWD) employee was apprehended by the vigilance department on Wednesday in Uttarkashi. The arrest occurred after the official was caught red-handed while accepting a bribe of Rs 10,000, highlighting ongoing efforts to combat graft in government services.
Details of the Bribery Incident
The accused, identified as Tika Ram Nautiyal, served as a land surveyor posted at the PWD's provincial division located at the Bhatwari Camp office. According to vigilance officials, Nautiyal allegedly demanded the bribe from a local resident to finalize compensation for land that had been acquired for a road construction project. This demand underscores the vulnerabilities in land acquisition processes and the exploitation faced by citizens.
Vigilance Team's Swift Action
Acting promptly on a complaint filed by the aggrieved local resident, a specialized vigilance team from Dehradun orchestrated a meticulous trap operation. The team successfully arrested Nautiyal around 10 am on Wednesday, precisely as he was accepting the illicit payment. This operation demonstrates the vigilance department's commitment to rooting out corruption through proactive measures and citizen cooperation.
Ongoing Investigation and Legal Proceedings
Following the arrest, Tika Ram Nautiyal is currently undergoing interrogation by vigilance authorities to uncover further details of the case. He is slated to be transported to the Vigilance headquarters in Dehradun for additional legal proceedings, which may include formal charges and a thorough investigation into any potential accomplices or related misconduct. This incident serves as a stern warning to other officials engaged in corrupt practices.
The arrest has sparked discussions about transparency in land compensation matters and the need for stricter oversight in government departments. Residents of Uttarkashi have expressed relief at the vigilance department's intervention, hoping it will deter future instances of bribery and ensure fair treatment in public projects.
