Jaisalmer (Rajasthan): In a significant anti-corruption operation, the Rajasthan Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) arrested a patwari posted in the Nachna area of Jaisalmer district for allegedly accepting a bribe of ₹50,000. The accused has been identified as Lakhbir Yadav, who was caught red-handed during a trap operation conducted after a formal complaint.
Complaint Triggered ACB Action
According to ACB officials, the case began after a local resident filed a complaint alleging that the patwari was demanding illegal payment in exchange for completing revenue-related work. The complaint was taken seriously, and a confidential verification was carried out to confirm the allegations.
During the verification process, ACB officials reportedly found enough evidence suggesting that illegal gratification was being demanded, following which a trap was planned.
Trap Operation and Arrest
As per the pre-planned operation, when the complainant handed over the ₹50,000 bribe amount, the ACB team immediately acted and caught the patwari red-handed at the spot.
The accused was taken into custody on the spot and later subjected to initial questioning by the investigation team. Officials confirmed that the entire transaction was being closely monitored as part of the trap strategy.
Concerns Over Revenue Department Corruption
The Nachna region has previously witnessed complaints related to revenue and land-related irregularities, including:
- Allegations of manipulation in land records
- Irregularities in land allocation processes
- Reports of unofficial payments for routine services
This latest arrest has once again raised concerns about transparency in local revenue offices.
Further Investigation Underway
The ACB is now investigating whether:
- The accused was acting alone or part of a larger network
- Similar bribe demands were made from other citizens
- There is a pattern of repeated illegal collections in the area
Officials are examining financial records, official documents, and digital evidence, including call details, to trace possible wider involvement.
ACB’s Anti-Corruption Stand
The ACB reiterated its zero-tolerance policy towards corruption and urged citizens not to pay bribes for any government service. The bureau also encouraged people to report any such demands immediately so that trap operations can be conducted.
Conclusion
The arrest of the patwari in Jaisalmer highlights continuing concerns over corruption in revenue administration at the grassroots level. Authorities expect further revelations as the investigation progresses.