12-06-2023: The ACB apprehended Mohd Sultan Bhat, the Incharge Block Forester of Budugam Tulail, on charges of demanding and accepting a bribe. This incident highlights the persistent issue of corruption within the region.
The arrest took place after Bhat was caught red-handed while demanding and accepting a bribe of Rs 30,000 from a contractor. The contractor, engaged in implementing the Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM) scheme in the remote areas of the Bandipora district, had been facing obstacles due to the lack of forest clearance. The JJM scheme, a government initiative, aims to provide safe and adequate drinking water to rural households across India by 2024. It is currently being implemented in Jammu and Kashmir as well.
Upon receiving a complaint regarding Bhat’s corrupt activities, the ACB swiftly launched an investigation. Acting on the provided information, ACB officials executed a successful trap operation, apprehending Bhat in the act of accepting the bribe. Subsequently, he was taken into custody.
ACB officials expressed their appreciation for the courage displayed by the contractor in reporting the bribery incident. They also reaffirmed their unwavering commitment to combating corruption and ensuring transparency in public services. Bhat, the arrested forester, will be presented before the court, and appropriate legal measures will be taken against him.
The ACB urged citizens to remain vigilant and report any instances of corruption, assuring them that such complaints would be promptly and firmly addressed. The bureau’s ongoing efforts to eliminate corruption and foster a corruption-free environment in Jammu and Kashmir are gaining momentum, indicating a positive step towards a more transparent and accountable society.