Contractor Alleges Officials Sought Illegal Payment to Clear Water Tank Project Bills
Nagaur, Rajasthan: The Rajasthan Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) has registered a corruption case against three officials of the Public Health Engineering Department (PHED), including two Assistant Engineers (AENs) and one Junior Engineer (JEN), for allegedly demanding a bribe from a contractor to clear pending bills related to a water tank construction project in Nagaur district. The action follows a complaint submitted by the contractor and a subsequent verification conducted by the bureau.
Complaint Triggered Preliminary Verification by ACB
According to officials, the complainant alleged that the PHED engineers demanded illegal gratification before approving payments for completed construction work. After receiving the complaint, the ACB carried out a preliminary inquiry and reportedly found sufficient grounds to register a case under provisions of the Prevention of Corruption Act.
Investigation to Focus on Bills, Files and Official Communications
Sources in the investigating agency said officials will scrutinize project records, payment files, departmental correspondence and other documents connected with the water tank project. Statements of the complainant, departmental staff and other witnesses are also expected to be recorded during the investigation. Authorities have not ruled out the possibility of further action if additional evidence emerges.
PHED Under Increasing Scrutiny in Corruption Cases
The latest case adds to a series of corruption-related investigations involving officials of the PHED in Rajasthan. In recent years, the ACB has intensified its crackdown on public servants accused of demanding bribes for clearing bills, approving works and processing departmental files. Several PHED officials have faced action in similar cases across the state.
ACB Urges Citizens to Report Corruption
The Anti-Corruption Bureau has appealed to contractors, businessmen and citizens to report any incidents involving bribery or misuse of official position. Officials said complaints received through proper channels are verified confidentially and strict legal action is initiated wherever evidence of corruption is found.
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Further Investigation Underway
The accused engineers are expected to face detailed questioning as investigators continue gathering evidence. The case is likely to be closely watched as it relates to public infrastructure and water supply projects, areas that directly impact citizens and involve significant public expenditure.