SRINAGAR: The Economic Offences Wing (EOW) of Crime Branch Jammu and Kashmir has filed a chargesheet against a resident of Budgam district for allegedly attempting to influence a judicial investigation by transferring ₹10,000 as a bribe to the bank account of an investigating officer.
Information was available with The Chenab Times that the chargesheet was presented before the Court of the Special Judge, Anti-Corruption, Srinagar. The accused, identified as Ghulam Ahmad Ganie, son of Ghulam Mohammad Ganie, from Mirgund in Budgam, faces charges under Section 8 of the Prevention of Corruption Act and Sections 228 and 229 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). These sections pertain to intentional insult or interruption to public servant sitting in judicial proceeding and obstruction to public servant in discharge of public functions respectively.
The investigation leading to the chargesheet was initiated following a written complaint. The complaint alleged that Ganie, who is himself an accused in an ongoing investigation concerning FIR No. 11/2021 registered by Crime Branch Kashmir (now EOW Kashmir), transferred the sum of ₹10,000 into the bank account of an investigating officer. The stated intention behind this transfer was to bribe and influence the ongoing investigation into his case.
A spokesperson for the Crime Branch Kashmir stated that upon receiving the complaint, a thorough probe was ordered. During the investigation, the allegations were meticulously examined, and relevant evidence was collected. The investigation concluded that the accused was indeed involved in the alleged act of attempting to bribe a public servant to influence an ongoing investigation. Based on these findings, the chargesheet was prepared and submitted to the court for judicial review and determination.
Officials reiterated the importance of maintaining integrity within the investigative process and cautioned the general public against engaging in corrupt practices. The public has been advised not to offer or pay bribes to any public servant in exchange for favours or services. Any demand for a bribe or involvement in corrupt practices should be immediately reported to the competent authorities for necessary legal action. The statement emphasized that public cooperation and timely reporting are crucial in the fight against corruption and in promoting transparency and accountability within government institutions.
The Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988, and its subsequent amendments, aim to prevent bribery and corruption among public servants. The Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, which replaced the Indian Penal Code, 1860, also includes provisions to deal with individuals who obstruct public servants in the discharge of their duties or attempt to influence judicial proceedings. The filing of this chargesheet signifies the commencement of the judicial process where the accused will have the opportunity to present his defense.
The Economic Offences Wing of the Crime Branch is mandated to investigate economic crimes, including corruption, fraud, and financial irregularities, to uphold financial probity and deter criminal activity within the region. The Budgam district, like other parts of Jammu and Kashmir, has seen ongoing efforts by law enforcement agencies to combat corruption and ensure that justice is served.
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The Chenab Times News Desk
