New Delhi [India], May 3 : In a startling turn of events, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has arrested a deputy general manager posted in the Hariajam Colliery under Eastern Coalfields Limited (ECL) in Dhanbad in connection with an alleged bribery case.
It was alleged that Ram Prakash Pandey, DGM of ECL in the Mugma area in Dhanbad demanded a bribe of Rs 75,000 from a 50 per cent handicapped "general mazdoor" to change his duty in the mine.
According to the officials, later the labourer approached the CBI with a complaint against Pandey.
The CBI filed a case against Pandey on May 1.
As per the allegations levelled against Pandey, he demanded a hefty bribe of Rs. 75,000 from a complainant to facilitate a change in duty assignment, from underground to surface work.
According to the complaint, the individual in question, employed as a General Mazdoor at Hariajam Colliery, CBH Group of Mines, under Mugma Area, ECL since 2006, met with a severe accident in 2011, rendering them 50 per cent handicapped.
"Despite possessing a medical certificate issued by the Civil Surgeon, Dhanbad, in 2012, confirming their condition, the accused allegedly refused to accommodate their request for a change in duties," the CBI said.
In an attempt to seek justice, the complainant turned to local authorities, including the Member of Parliament representing the area.
Subsequently, the accused Deputy General Manager issued an authorization letter on March 16 assigning the complainant to surface work at the weighbridge, Central Pool Siding.
"However, the accused purportedly demanded a bribe in exchange for this adjustment," it said.
The CBI set up a trap and apprehended the Deputy General Manager while in the act of accepting Rs 20,000 as a partial payment of the bribe.
"Further investigation led to the discovery of incriminating documents during searches conducted at the accused's premises. As the investigation unfolds, the CBI assures the public of its commitment to uphold the principles of transparency and integrity in the face of corruption," the CBI said in a statement.