Transport – West Bengal Suspends Two Inspectors Over Alleged Bribery at Check Post
Transport – The West Bengal government has taken disciplinary action against two motor vehicle inspectors after allegations surfaced that they demanded money from a truck driver despite the vehicle carrying valid documents. The move has been presented as part of the state’s commitment to maintaining accountability and preventing corruption within government departments.
Chief Minister Announces Immediate Suspension
West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari announced on Friday that two Motor Vehicle Inspectors (MVIs) posted at the Rampur check post in Paschim Bardhaman district have been suspended following complaints of alleged bribery. According to the Chief Minister, the officials were accused of stopping a truck without valid grounds, harassing its driver, and demanding illegal payments even though all required transport documents were reportedly in order.
The disciplinary action was made public through the Chief Minister’s official social media account, where he reiterated the government’s commitment to maintaining integrity across administrative departments.
Anti-Corruption Branch Begins Investigation
Alongside the suspension, the state’s Anti-Corruption Branch (ACB) has initiated an investigation into the allegations. The inquiry will examine the circumstances surrounding the incident and determine whether criminal or departmental proceedings are warranted against the officials.
The suspended inspectors have been identified as Nazimul Haque and Anupam Banerjee. Authorities stated that the investigation will be conducted thoroughly to establish the facts and ensure that any misconduct is addressed under the law.
Details of the Complaint
According to information shared by the Chief Minister, the incident involved a goods carrier truck bearing registration number JH09BA3535. The truck, owned by Dipak Singh and driven by Shiva Yadav, was reportedly returning to its garage after servicing when it was stopped at the Rampur check post.
The complaint alleges that officials intercepted the vehicle without justification and pressured the driver to pay a bribe. When the driver refused, the truck was allegedly detained, and a demand of ₹22,000 was raised in connection with a tax that the state government claims had already been abolished.
Officials said the complaint has now been formally referred to the Anti-Corruption Branch for a detailed criminal inquiry and any necessary legal proceedings.
Government Reaffirms Zero-Tolerance Policy
In his statement, the Chief Minister emphasized that the West Bengal government follows a strict zero-tolerance approach toward corruption at every level of administration. He stated that extortion, illegal gratification, and abuse of authority would not be accepted under any circumstances and that the administration remains committed to eliminating corrupt practices from the system.
The government also directed authorities to ensure that vehicles found to have been detained without valid legal grounds are released promptly. It further instructed officials to take firm action against anyone found responsible for harassing transport operators or demanding unlawful payments.
Warning to Government Officials
The Chief Minister concluded his statement with a warning to government employees across departments, saying that any official proven to be involved in corruption, harassment, or illegal financial demands would face strict disciplinary as well as legal consequences.
He added that the administration intends to strengthen transparency and public confidence by ensuring accountability in government operations and taking swift action whenever credible complaints of misconduct emerge.