The Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) apprehended two employees from the tax collection department of the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) for accepting bribes. The employees, identified as Sumit Rajendra Chandere (28) and Prashant Shivajirao Ghadge (34), were caught demanding and accepting a bribe of Rs 25,000 from a senior citizen. The bribe was intended to reduce the tax assessment on the complainant’s new house.
The case began in April 2024 when the senior citizen filed an application at the Aundh-Baner regional office of the PMC. The application was subsequently forwarded to Ghadge for processing. During the follow-up process, Ghadge demanded a bribe of Rs 25,000 to facilitate a reduction in the tax assessment. The complainant, seeking to address this unethical demand, reported the incident to Sumit Chandere, another public servant at the office. Chandere corroborated the necessity of paying the bribe as instructed by Ghadge.
Realising the gravity of the situation, the complainant approached the Anti-Corruption Bureau to report the bribery demand. Acting swiftly, the ACB orchestrated a sting operation. Chandere was caught red-handed accepting the bribe from the complainant in the presence of witnesses, leading to the immediate arrest of both Chandere and Ghadge. The duo now faces charges under Sections 7 and 7A of the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988.
The successful operation was led by Police Inspector Atul Bhosale, with substantial contributions from Assistant Police Sub-Inspector Mukund Ayachit, along with officers Kailas Mahamulkar and Deepak Divekar. Their coordinated efforts ensured the apprehension of the corrupt officials and underscored the commitment of law enforcement agencies to combat corruption within municipal departments.
The arrest of Chandere and Ghadge has brought to light the persistent issue of corruption within public offices, particularly in the tax collection departments. This incident serves as a reminder of the critical need for transparency and accountability in public service. The proactive measures taken by the ACB, coupled with vigilant citizens willing to report corruption, are crucial in eradicating such malpractices.
The PMC has yet to issue a formal statement regarding the arrests, but the incident has undoubtedly raised concerns about the integrity of public officials. As the investigation proceeds, it is anticipated that more stringent measures will be implemented to prevent similar incidents in the future.
The ACB’s action in this case is a testament to the agency’s dedication to maintaining the rule of law and ensuring that public servants adhere to ethical standards. The ongoing vigilance against corruption is essential in fostering public trust and ensuring the efficient functioning of municipal services.
