Corruption – CBI Arrests ASI Officials in Bribery Case at Historic Site
Corruption – The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has taken two officials of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) into custody over allegations of bribery linked to work permissions at a protected heritage site.
The arrests, confirmed on Friday, relate to a case in which the officials are accused of demanding money in exchange for withdrawing an official notice and permitting ongoing work to continue.
Allegations of Bribe Demand
According to the investigating agency, the case surfaced after a formal complaint was lodged by an individual who had received a notice from the ASI. The notice had reportedly halted certain work activities at a site falling under the ASI’s jurisdiction.
The complainant alleged that a monument attendant, acting on behalf of a conservation assistant, demanded a payment of Rs 3.5 lakh. In return, the officials allegedly promised to revoke the notice and allow the work to proceed without further interference.
Investigators say that negotiations followed, during which the demanded amount was reduced to Rs 3.1 lakh. The complainant was then instructed to make an initial payment of Rs 1 lakh as part of the agreed sum.
CBI Trap Operation
Following the complaint, the CBI initiated a planned operation to verify the allegations. On April 1, officials set up a trap to catch the accused in the act of accepting the bribe.
During the operation, the monument attendant was apprehended while allegedly receiving the first installment of Rs 1 lakh. The conservation assistant, who was also implicated in the complaint, was subsequently taken into custody.
The agency stated that both individuals were arrested after sufficient evidence was gathered during the operation.
Role of the Accused Officials
The two arrested individuals were posted at the ASI’s sub-circle office located at Jantar Mantar, a historically significant site under government protection.
Officials in such roles are typically responsible for monitoring conservation work, ensuring compliance with heritage protection rules, and issuing notices in cases of violations. The allegations suggest misuse of official authority for personal gain.
The CBI has indicated that the monument attendant acted as an intermediary, while the conservation assistant was the primary beneficiary of the alleged bribe demand.
Investigation and Legal Proceedings
After the arrests, the agency conducted searches and began further investigation to determine whether similar incidents had occurred in the past. Officials are also examining documents and communication records to establish the full scope of the alleged misconduct.
Both accused individuals are expected to be produced before a court, where the CBI will seek custody for further questioning.
The case has once again drawn attention to concerns around corruption in departments responsible for safeguarding heritage structures. Authorities have reiterated that strict action will be taken against any misuse of public office.
Broader Implications
The incident highlights the challenges faced by individuals dealing with regulatory authorities at protected sites. While rules are essential to preserve historical monuments, allegations of bribery undermine public trust and raise questions about enforcement practices.
The CBI has urged citizens to report any instances of corruption, assuring that complaints will be handled confidentially and investigated thoroughly.
As the probe continues, more details are expected to emerge regarding the extent of the alleged wrongdoing and whether additional officials may be involved.