The Special Judge for CBI Cases in Ahmedabad has sentenced Kishanram Hiralal Sonkar, former Manager of Finance & Accounts (F&A) at the Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) Ankleshwar Asset, to three years of rigorous imprisonment along with a fine of Rs. 25 lakh. The judgment comes in connection with a case concerning possession of disproportionate assets.
Background of the Case
The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) initiated the case on June 29, 2006, against Sonkar after receiving information that he had allegedly accumulated assets vastly exceeding his known income. The investigation focused on the period from October 1, 2002, to June 21, 2006, during which Sonkar reportedly amassed assets worth Rs. 14,11,310 that were disproportionate by 84% compared to his known sources of income.
Investigation and Findings
As the investigation progressed, the CBI uncovered further evidence showing that Sonkar’s assets amounted to Rs. 22,15,609, which was 62% beyond what his legitimate earnings could justify. This assessment covered a broader period, from January 1, 2000, to July 1, 2006, known as the “check period.”
The CBI determined that Sonkar’s assets could not be reasonably accounted for based on his salary and other declared sources of income during this time. The findings revealed unexplained expenditures and property acquisitions that heightened suspicions of illegal wealth accumulation.
Filing of the Charge Sheet
Upon concluding its investigation, the CBI filed a formal charge sheet against Sonkar on January 24, 2008. The charge sheet detailed the significant disparity between Sonkar’s reported income and his actual wealth, presenting evidence of funds and properties that could not be explained by his known sources of income.
Court Proceedings and Verdict
Following an exhaustive trial where evidence was examined and witnesses presented, the court found Sonkar guilty of holding disproportionate assets. Based on the severity of the case, the court sentenced him to three years of rigorous imprisonment and ordered him to pay a substantial fine of Rs. 25 lakh.
The verdict reflects the judiciary’s stance on addressing corruption and unlawful wealth accumulation among public servants. By imposing a combination of rigorous imprisonment and a heavy fine, the court aimed to deliver a strong message about the legal consequences of amassing assets through illicit means.
Significance of the Case
The case underscores the CBI’s commitment to investigating financial impropriety within public offices and maintaining accountability. Through such prosecutions, authorities hope to deter public servants from engaging in corruption or acquiring unexplained wealth that cannot be justified by their income.
