Bihar cadre IAS officer Sanjeev Hans is at the center of a major corruption scandal. He is accused of serious financial misconduct, and the Special Vigilance Unit (SVU) has lodged a First Information Report (FIR) against him. The case revolves around Hans allegedly accepting bribes in exchange for awarding contracts, including receiving a luxury Mercedes car. This case has exposed a series of shady financial transactions and improper corporate gifts, violating the Indian Civil Services Conduct Rules. Several high-profile individuals are also under investigation.
Bribes in Exchange for Contracts
The FIR states that Sanjeev Hans received a Mercedes car as a bribe for facilitating contracts for a company responsible for installing prepaid meters in Bihar. This car, purchased in 2023, was traced back to Hans’ relative, Gur Baltej Singh, who even posted photos with the car on social media, further linking the vehicle to Hans.
Lavish Corporate Gifts
During the investigation, 15 luxury watches, valued at around ₹70 lakh, were found in Hans’ possession. These watches were allegedly given to him as corporate gifts from various companies. This is a clear violation of Indian Civil Services Conduct Rules, which restrict civil servants from accepting such expensive gifts. Hans’ explanation for accepting these items has raised more doubts about his relationships with certain businesses.
Suspicious Bank Transactions
Investigators also uncovered suspicious transactions in Hans’ bank accounts. Between 2015 and 2022, Ambika Yadav, the wife of former MLA Gulab Yadav, deposited a total of ₹3.8 crore into Hans’ account. Additionally, it is alleged that Hans paid ₹2 lakh per month to Gayatri Devi through Gulab Yadav, though the reason for these payments remains unclear.
Hawala Transactions and Real Estate Deals
The case took a more serious turn when evidence of illegal financial dealings through hawala channels came to light. Sunil Sinha, a close associate of Hans, is accused of helping facilitate these hawala transactions. It was revealed that between November 2017 and February 2022, ₹2.44 crore was transferred through hawala networks.
One particular transaction involved a flat in Lucknow, worth ₹90 lakh, which was allegedly transferred to Gayatri Kumari. This deal, along with other questionable transactions, involved Sunil Sinha and his company, AXE Army Men’s Protection Services.
Enforcement Directorate (ED) Steps In
As the investigation deepens, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) has become involved, particularly after receiving photographic and video evidence that further links Sanjeev Hans to financial irregularities. The ED is now looking into possible money laundering activities, adding another layer of complexity to the case.
Ongoing Investigation
The SVU is continuing its probe into Hans’ financial network, with more details emerging about his connections to other influential figures. Several IAS officers and business associates are now also under investigation. The case could lead to further charges of money laundering and abuse of official power.
