Assam's DVAC Nabs ADPM, CEO for Allegedly Accepting Bribes in Dhubri Zilla Parishad

A significant breakthrough was made by the Directorate of Vigilance and Anti-Corruption (DVAC) on Friday, as they apprehended the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Dhubri Zilla Parishad, Biswajit Goswami, and his Assistant District Programme Manager, Mrinal Kanti Sarkar, on charges of accepting bribes.

The duo was caught red-handed on camera accepting a bribe of Rs 30,000 from two Zilla Parishad members in exchange for approving developmental projects under government schemes.

Today @DIR_VAC_ASSAM trapped red handed Mrinal Kanti Sarkar, ADPM, in the office chamber of CEO, Zila Parishad, Dhubri after he accepted Rs30000/- on instructions of the CEO, as bribe for releasing of payments. @CMOfficeAssam @assampolice @surendrakr_ips pic.twitter.com/F79gfAV8tP

— Directorate of Vigilance & Anti-Corruption, Assam (@DIR_VAC_ASSAM) July 21, 2023

The DVAC had been inundated with complaints from the public and Zilla Parishad members, all alleging rampant corruption and malpractices within the organization. Goswami and Sarkar were reportedly demanding exorbitant amounts of money in exchange for sanctioning work at the Zilla Parishad, fueling a growing chorus of grievances against them.

Upon receiving a tip-off, the DVAC acted swiftly and devised a meticulous plan to apprehend the accused officials. Setting up a trap, the vigilant team caught Goswami and Sarkar in the act of accepting the bribe money within their office premises. The authorities also seized the illicit cash and crucial documents, which will serve as compelling evidence against the accused in court.

According to reports, this is not the first time that corruption allegations have been levied against Goswami, with numerous panchayat members and Zilla Parishad officials accusing him of being deeply entrenched in corrupt practices.

The DVAC's swift action in apprehending these corrupt officials has been commended by many, as it underscores the government's commitment to combat corruption and ensure transparency in the system. However, it has also shed light on the urgent need for a comprehensive overhaul of the administrative machinery to effectively curb corruption.

The arrests of high-ranking officials like the CEO of Dhubri Zilla Parishad and his assistant send a strong message that corruption will not be tolerated, irrespective of the perpetrator's position. It also serves as a stern warning to others engaged in corrupt practices that they will be held accountable for their actions.

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