The Sting Operation: Caught with ₹6,000

On Monday, acting on a meticulously planned strategy, the Lokayukta team raided the Tejgarh Panchayat building. As soon as the victim handed over ₹6,000 to the Panchayat Secretary, Jugraj Singh Lodhi, the team moved in. In a desperate attempt to evade arrest, the secretary immediately passed the cash to the village watchman (Chaukidar), Gudda Raikwar. Consequently, the watchman has also been named as a co-accused in the case.

To solidify the evidence, a chemical test was conducted. When the hands of both suspects were washed in a specialized solution, the water turned red, providing scientific confirmation that they had handled the bribe money.

The Grievance: Installments Held Hostage

The complainant, Mahendra Kosti, a resident of Tejgarh, approached the Lokayukta after facing persistent harassment. According to Kosti, a house worth ₹1.20 lakh had been sanctioned under PMAY in his wife’s name. However, Secretary Jugraj Singh allegedly demanded an illegal gratification of ₹15,000 to release the second installment.

The victim revealed that:

• His rightful payment was withheld because he refused to pay the bribe.
• After several negotiations, the amount was “settled” at ₹6,000.
• Unable to bear the extortion, Kosti filed a written complaint with the Sagar Lokayukta SP office on April 16.

Legal Action Under Anti-Corruption Laws

The operation was led by Lokayukta Inspector Manju Kiran Tirkey, along with Inspector Ranjit Singh and a team of several head constables. Following the successful trap, a case was registered against both accused individuals under various sections of the Prevention of Corruption Act.

The incident has sent shockwaves through the administrative circles of the Tendukheda block. Local residents have hailed the action, describing it as a necessary step toward ensuring transparency in government welfare schemes.

Disclaimer: This article is based on news inputs and official reports from the Lokayukta police. The accused are currently under investigation. Under the law, every individual is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

In an application submitted to the Superintendent of Police, the groom stated that his village is socially backward, where certain orthodox practices are still followed. He alleged that some influential individuals in the village are trying to prevent him from riding a horse during the wedding procession and performing traditional rituals at a temple.

The application further mentions that such interference could lead to disputes and there is a possibility of an untoward incident. The groom and his family have expressed serious concerns regarding their safety.

He has requested the police administration to deploy adequate security personnel around 11 AM on the wedding day during the procession, so that the ceremony can take place smoothly without any disruption or conflict.

This incident has once again raised concerns about social harmony and law and order in the region. All eyes are now on the administration to see how it responds to this sensitive situation and ensures a peaceful wedding ceremony.