Lohardaga News: ACB Arrests Jharkhand Welfare Department Clerk for ₹50,000 Bribe in Lohardaga

Lohardaga, December 05, 2024: In a significant operation, the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) arrested Rajendra Oraon, a head clerk from the Welfare Department in Jharkhand’s Lohardaga district, for accepting a bribe of ₹50,000. The arrest marks a decisive step in the state government’s crackdown on corruption.

Bribery Incident and Arrest Details

The ACB team apprehended Rajendra Oraon red-handed while he was accepting ₹50,000 as the first installment of a ₹70,000 bribe. The payment was allegedly demanded for facilitating the construction of a cemetery wall. Imran Khan, the individual involved in the project, reported the matter to the ACB, leading to the sting operation.

Following the arrest, the ACB officials took Rajendra Oraon into custody and transported him to Ranchi for further questioning and legal proceedings.

Background of the Case

The complaint detailed that the bribe was a prerequisite for processing paperwork related to the cemetery project in Lohardaga. The accused had demanded ₹70,000 in total, and the first installment was set at ₹50,000, which was handed over during the operation.

The arrest was conducted in the Welfare Department’s office, creating a strong message about accountability and transparency in public administration.

ACB’s Efforts to Curb Corruption

The Anti-Corruption Bureau has been actively pursuing cases of corruption across Jharkhand, focusing on government departments notorious for bribery and misconduct. This incident underscores the ACB’s commitment to eliminating malpractices within the state’s bureaucracy.

The ACB’s swift action in this case reflects the agency’s readiness to address citizen complaints and maintain governance integrity.

Significance of the Operation

This arrest is not an isolated incident but part of a broader strategy to ensure corruption-free governance in Jharkhand. The government, under Chief Minister Hemant Soren’s leadership, has emphasized rooting out unethical practices, especially in departments critical to public welfare.

The Welfare Department plays a crucial role in implementing schemes for marginalized communities. Ensuring its integrity is vital for fostering trust and delivering justice to beneficiaries.

What’s Next?

Rajendra Oraon faces legal proceedings as the ACB prepares its chargesheet. Authorities are expected to intensify investigations to uncover any larger nexus within the department. This case serves as a wake-up call for officials across the state to adhere to ethical practices.