Bribery Scandal: Dharamgarh Sub-Collector Caught in Rs 10 Lakh Corruption Case

Dharamgarh Sub-Collector Arrested for Bribery

Dhiman Chakma, the Sub-Collector of Dharamgarh in Kalahandi district, was apprehended on Sunday by Vigilance officials for allegedly accepting a bribe of Rs 10 lakh from a local businessman. This arrest is part of a broader anti-corruption initiative.

Sources indicate that Chakma had initially demanded Rs 20 lakh, threatening the businessman with punitive measures against his operations if the payment was not made.

Following a formal complaint, a sting operation was executed at Chakma's official residence. The businessman handed over Rs 10 lakh in cash, consisting of 26 bundles of Rs 100 notes, which Chakma reportedly checked and stored in a drawer within his office.

Tests conducted on his hands and the drawer immediately after the transaction revealed the presence of chemicals associated with bribery.

Further investigations at the Sub-Collector's residence uncovered an additional Rs 47 lakh in cash, raising concerns about potential extensive financial irregularities. Officials from the anti-corruption unit have indicated that more searches are planned.

A case has been filed under Section 7 of the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988, as revised in 2018. The investigation is ongoing, marking yet another significant operation by Vigilance targeting public officials in the region.