Assam's anti-corruption drive: Officials arrested red-handed in bribery scandals

Digital Desk: The Directorate of Vigilance & Anti-Corruption in Assam has recently intensified its efforts to tackle corruption within the state. Following numerous complaints implicating public servants, the Directorate swiftly took action to uphold integrity and combat unethical practices.

In the first incident, Nanda Hazarika, a Switch Board Operator-1 at the office of the Assam Power Distribution Company Limited (APDCL) in Nagaon, faced accusations of demanding bribes amounting to Rs. 19,000 for processing a commercial meter application. Despite negotiations reducing the bribe to Rs. 3,500, Hazarika was apprehended near his residence after accepting the tainted money. He has been charged under the relevant sections of the Prevention of Corruption Act, highlighting the Directorate's commitment to prosecuting offenders.

Similarly, Brajendra Nath Das, the Child Development Project Officer (CDPO) of the Borobazar ICDS Project in Chirang, found himself entangled in allegations of corruption. A complaint lodged at the Directorate accused Das of demanding Rs. 30,000 for bill processing. Subsequent investigations led to Das's arrest as he accepted Rs. 10,000 of the demanded bribe. This incident underscores the Directorate's proactive stance in combating corruption at all levels of public service.

In another incident, Harendra Nath Baishya Bania, AFS, Treasury Officer in Guwahati, was accused of soliciting Rs. 10,000 for approving challan for non-judicial stamps. A well-coordinated operation by the Directorate resulted in Bania's arrest after he accepted Rs. 4,000 of the bribe. This decisive action indicates the Directorate's unwavering determination to root out corruption and maintain transparency within government institutions.

These prompt interventions by the Directorate of Vigilance & Anti-Corruption underscore its commitment to ethical governance and accountability in Assam. 

By swiftly responding to complaints and holding accountable those engaged in corrupt practices, the Directorate sends a clear message that corruption will not be tolerated in public service. Such efforts are crucial for fostering public trust, promoting fair administration, and ultimately, driving socio-economic development in the state.