In a major crackdown against corruption, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) arrested a Northern Railway official and a contractor in Lucknow for allegedly demanding and accepting a bribe of ₹5 lakh.
The official, identified as Harish Kumar, IRSE 2006, deputy chief engineer-II, constructions, NR, Charbagh, Lucknow, was caught red-handed accepting the bribe from the contractor, Virendra Tomar, and his son Prashant Tomar of M/s Tomar Construction, Kosi Kalan, Uttar Pradesh.
The CBI conducted searches at multiple locations belonging to the accused, including their residences in Lucknow, Jaunpur, and Kosi Kalan. The searches yielded ₹52 lakh in cash, locker keys, electronic items, and incriminating documents.
The accused will be presented before a competent court on Thursday, where the CBI is expected to seek their custody for further investigation.
The CBI has registered a case against 10 accused, including public servants of NR, Lucknow, and others. The agency alleges that the accused conspired with private contractors to demand and accept bribes in exchange for expeditious processing of due payments.
This case highlights the CBI’s commitment to eradicating corruption and upholding the integrity of public institutions. It serves as a strong warning to those who engage in dishonest practices.