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ACB Uncovers Massive Bribery Racket Involving Police And Mining Department

May 26, 2025, 11:32 pm

A major corruption scandal has surfaced during an Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) investigation, revealing entrenched bribery within the system. The probe found that ASP Surendra Sharma of the ACB allegedly collected a hefty monthly bribe of Rs 6 to Rs 8 lakh from various police stations across the district, along with a similar amount from the district’s transport department. Further inquiries revealed that Sharma was also regularly receiving kickbacks from officials allegedly supporting the illegal gravel mining mafia. Officials from the Forest and Mining Departments have been implicated, and the ACB plans to summon them for questioning. Earlier, the ACB issued notices to 12 police station officers and transport officials in Sawai Madhopur. Arrest preparations are underway, marking a significant crackdown on institutional corruption.

Preparations are underway to arrest the SHOs of eight police stations in Sawai Madhopur, along with four officers from the Transport Department, in the ongoing bribery case. The ACB headquarters has submitted a preliminary report to the Police Headquarters, based on information obtained during the interrogation of the arrested ASP, an inspector, and their two brokers. Acting on this report, the Police Headquarters has initiated strict action against the accused SHOs involved in the monthly bribery racket. This marks a significant step in the crackdown on corruption within the police and transport departments.

Police Stations Under Investigation

In the ongoing monthly bond case, the ACB is investigating police stations including Chauth ka Barwara, Barwara Kalan, Khandar, Rawanjna Dungar, Soorwal, Kotwali, Marlan Dungar, Mantown, and Kandara in Sawai Madhopur. The probe revealed that the arrested ASP Surendra Sharma and ACB inspector Soni were extorting a monthly bond of Rs 2 lakh from each police station officer in collusion with the gravel mafia. Sharma allegedly threatened officers who refused to pay, warning them of being caught red-handed taking bribes from the mafia. Using this fear of entrapment, the accused officers collected between Rs 6 to 8 lakh every month through this illegal racket.

Bribe Collection Network Spanned Multiple Departments

The ACB investigation also revealed that the arrested ASP and Inspector had activated agents to collect monthly bribes from the District Transport Department, Forest Department, and Mining Department offices in Sawai Madhopur. Besides private agents, the accused officers involved employees and officials from these departments in the bribery network. As part of the probe, the ACB arrested two private agents, Pradeep and Ramraj, along with District Transport Officer Punyaram Meena. Meena was responsible for delivering the monthly bribes from the Transport Department to the two ACB officers. Following his arrest, the ACB is now preparing to apprehend officials from the Forest and Mining Departments implicated in the bribery racket.

Ongoing Probe And Call Record Analysis

ACB Director General Dr Ravi Prakash Meharda stated that the information obtained from the interrogation of the five accused arrested in the Monthly Bond case is currently being verified. Additionally, the investigation is ongoing to gather evidence against other suspects based on call records from the arrested individuals’ mobile phones. As part of this process, notices have been issued summoning 12 other accused to the ACB headquarters for questioning.

Haryana Government Targets Corruption: 370 Patwaris and 170 Middlemen Named in Crackdown, Deputy Commissioners told to Act Within 15 Days

January 17, 2025, 9:58 pm

Taking a strict step to root out corruption from the revenue department, the Haryana government has identified 370 patwaris (revenue officials) and 170 middlemen accused of indulging in bribery and misconduct. As per a notice issued by the the Additional Chief Secretary (Revenue) Anurag Rastogi has instructed all deputy commissioners to take strict action against the identified individuals and submit a report to the government within 15 days. The government’s confidential report, compiled with inputs from intelligence agencies accessed by TDG, outlines the modus operandi of the accused patwaris and their associates. The report also details bribe amounts demanded for various routine tasks such as land mutation, demarcation, record rectification, and issuing land maps.

The highest number of tainted patwaris were reported in Kaithal (46), followed by Sonipat (41) and Mahendragarh (36). While, Gurgaon district led in terms of middlemen, with 26 identified, while Mahendragarh reported 20, and Palwal, Rewari, and Sonipat accounted for 15 each. As per the orders the Patwaries and their assistants harass the public by repeatedly raising objections to delay routine work unless bribes were paid. For instance, a patwari posted at Ambala Cantt allegedly harassed citizens for land mutation and other tasks, with bribes being collected by a local middleman. As per the letter the bribe rates varied across districts, with Gurgaon emerging as the costliest, where identified patwaris charged ₹3,000 to ₹5,000 for land mutation and related tasks. In contrast, patwarias in Faridabad charged ₹500 to ₹700 to locate old revenue files.

The report suggests that most tainted officials are posted in rural areas, where land dealings are more frequent. However, high-value corruption cases were also reported in urbanized regions. Some patwaris allegedly tampered with land records, while others left critical tasks pending for months in the absence of bribes. The revenue department currently has 1,378 patwaris, with 1,313 positions vacant. However, the shortage is expected to be addressed once 2,600 newly recruited patwaris complete their training.
Sources reveal that the state CID conducted extensive fieldwork to prepare the list of corrupt officials. Apart from naming the patwaris and middlemen, the report includes their caste, tenure, mobile numbers, and even native villages, offering granular details to aid the crackdown. “The common man often suffers due to the corrupt practices of patwaris, which tarnishes the government’s image. This decisive action aims to rebuild public trust,” reads the letter written by Rastogi to the deputy commissioners.

Citizens ‘How Much More Will You Eat?’ Throw Money At Officer In Gujarat | WATCH

January 15, 2025, 11:53 am

A video showcasing a bold protest against alleged corruption in a government office in Gujarat has taken the internet by storm. Shared widely on social media platforms, the footage captures a dramatic confrontation between local citizens and a government officer, highlighting public outrage over unresolved civic issues.

Protesters Accuse Officer, Throw Money in Anger

In the viral video, a group of protesters enters the government office, accusing an officer of corruption while he remains seated with folded hands. Wearing placards around their necks, the protesters express their frustration by throwing bundles of money at the officer.

The demonstrators, speaking in Gujarati, allege that the officer secured his position through bribery and accuse him of forwarding ill-gotten money to higher authorities. One protester angrily declares, “Take it! How much ill-gotten money will you eat? The public gave the answer in the same language.”

WATCH THE VIRAL VIDEO:

ले खा ! कितनी हराम की कमाई खायेगा, जनता ने दिया उसी भाषा में जवाब

अब अधिकारी भी क्या करे उन्हें जॉब पाने के लिए कितनी रिश्वत दी होगी ? अब अपने आका(उच्च अधिकारियों) को दे रहा होगा ? इसका अंदाजा भी लगाना जरूरी है #viralvideo गुजरात का बताया जा रहा है। pic.twitter.com/peJvA4f0Sv

— Bulbul (@bulbulmsd) January 13, 2025

Civic Complaints Drive the Protest

The protesters primarily raise concerns about poor water quality in their areas. Complaints include reports of dirty water in residential societies like Bismillah Society, with residents demanding accountability and solutions.

Despite the heated accusations, the officer remains silent and seated, with his hands folded, as the protesters record the event.

Social Media Reaction and Unverified Claims

The video was shared on X (formerly Twitter), where a user alleged corruption within the office. However, details about the exact location or identity of the officer remain unclear, and the veracity of these claims is yet to be independently verified.

This incident has sparked widespread discussions online, with many netizens lauding the protesters’ boldness while calling for more transparency and accountability in governance.

CBI Uncovers Hawala Bribery Network, Arrests DSP Amid Investigation

January 6, 2025, 2:13 am

The hawala mafia, known for secretly sending vast sums of money to notorious mafia dons, has expanded its reach to government offices across India. To avoid the scrutiny of investigative agencies, many high-ranking government officials involved in corruption have resorted to using hawala networks to collect bribes. Last year, the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) uncovered a major bribery racket involving three senior officials, including an IAS officer.

At the start of the new year, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) unveiled a similar network of corruption, arresting its own Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) for accepting bribes through hawala transactions. The arrest of DSP Brij Mohan Meena has highlighted the depth of hawala infiltration in the country’s governmental institutions.

Raid Uncovers Illicit Wealth And Long-Standing Hawala Connections

The CBI raided multiple locations linked to DSP Meena, including properties in Jaipur, Delhi, Kolkata, and Mumbai, uncovering illicit wealth worth crores of rupees. Shockingly, the documents seized revealed his long-standing connections with individuals involved in the hawala business. Preliminary investigations have revealed that Meena had transacted over Rs 3 crores in hawala deals. Among the seized items were documents of movable and immovable property valued at Rs 1.78 crores, along with Rs 55 lakhs in cash.

Evidence Of Over Rs 1.63 Crore In Bribes Transferred Via Hawala

Evidence also surfaced of over Rs 1.63 crores being transferred as bribes via hawala has also been collected, revealing the extent of corruption within the CBI’s own ranks. The agency has now intensified its surveillance on other officials, suspecting further infiltration by the hawala mafia across different sectors of the government.

ACB’s Investigation Uncovers Widespread Use Of Hawala In Bribery

The CBI’s revelations follow a significant operation by the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) last year, which first exposed the widespread use of hawala for bribery in the state. During this investigation, three senior officials, including an IAS officer named Rajendra Vijay, were found to be complicit with the hawala mafia. ACB’s raids unearthed a multi-crore racket, with the three officials allegedly accumulating vast sums of money through hawala and using it to build luxurious properties, including malls, resorts, and spa centres in upscale locations.

Mobile phones belonging to these three officials revealed crucial evidence of hawala transactions, including messages exchanged on WhatsApp about cash bribe deliveries and receipts. The ACB discovered that, in the absence of formal documentation in hawala dealings, corrupt officials were now following the same practices as mafia gangsters—accepting and transferring bribe money via encrypted communication and secretive methods. The hawala mafia, acting as middlemen, would provide the officials with numbers to identify cash and mobile numbers for receiving payments.

ACB Director Highlights Hawala’s Role In Concealing Illegal Wealth

ACB Director General Dr Ravi Prakash Mehrada explained that the lack of documentation in hawala transactions makes it an ideal avenue for corrupt officials seeking to conceal illegal wealth. He noted that hawala was now being used widely to funnel bribe money into the hands of government employees, including those holding powerful positions like IAS officers. The CBI’s investigation into DSP Meena marks a new chapter in the ongoing battle against the hawala mafia, highlighting the deepening connections between corrupt officials and criminal networks.

As the investigation progresses, the authorities are now on high alert, focusing on identifying other government officials who may have connections with hawala operators. This growing trend of using hawala for bribery is becoming a serious concern, as it threatens the integrity of government institutions and undermines public trust. The agencies are committed to rooting out corruption and breaking the links between hawala mafia and public service officers, ensuring that those involved face stringent legal consequences.

Ratan Tata’s Response to a Man’s Question: “How Do You Avoid Corruption?”

October 10, 2024, 2:11 pm

In a 2010 exclusive interview with NDTV, industrialist Ratan Tata recounted an intriguing conversation he had with another billionaire. During their discussion, the billionaire suggested that Mr. Tata should pay ₹15 crore to a minister for an undisclosed business deal.

Mr. Tata firmly declined the proposal. When the fellow industrialist questioned him, “How do you avoid corruption?” Mr. Tata responded, “It has to be self-regulating. You will never understand.”

Ratan Tata passed away at the age of 86 in a Mumbai hospital on Wednesday. His death signifies the conclusion of an era in Indian business, as he significantly transformed the nation’s industrial landscape and elevated his family-owned conglomerate to a global powerhouse. This news has prompted an outpouring of grief and tributes from across the country.

Also Read: Sudha Murty Remembers Ratan Tata: ‘He was a person of integrity…’

“I want to go to bed at night feeling that I have not done it (corruption),” Mr. Tata remarked.

He will be cremated today with full state honors. Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde announced a day of mourning in tribute to the legendary industrialist and philanthropist. The national flag will be flown at half-mast at government offices in Maharashtra as a sign of respect, and numerous events scheduled for Thursday have been canceled.

Also Read: Under Ratan Tata’s Leadership: Dominance Of Tata Group’s Global Influence

Mr. Tata’s body will be available for public viewing at the National Centre for Performing Arts (NCPA) in Mumbai’s Nariman Point from 10 AM to 4 PM today, allowing people to pay their final respects.

Zero Tolerance on Corruption? Prosecution Approval Pending Against 19 Top Rajasthan Officers

August 26, 2024, 7:17 pm

The party in power often claims Zero Tolerance on corruption. Before coming into power ‘Zero tolerance on Corruption is one of the agendas for the political parties’. Congress or BJP; both talk about zero tolerance on corruption before coming to power, but the prosecution approval figures tell a different reality. Along with ACB, Rajasthan Police is also looking towards the government that if prosecution approval is given against such officers, then the action can be taken forward. The situation is that from 2018 to 2024, the government has not given prosecution approval against 20 of the big officers who have been trapped or against whom other cases are registered.

The issue is further complicated by the fact that 7 of these officers have already retired. This figure pertains to IAS, RAS, and RPS officers, and the total would be even larger if other cadres were included. Numerous officers were caught accepting bribes or are under investigation for disproportionate assets, yet the government continues to show leniency. Over the past five years, from April 2019 to May 2024, the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) has taken action against 182 officers and employees. Despite this, the Personnel Department and the government have not granted permission to file charges against many of these corrupt officials.

Question…Who is saving the officers?

The Anti-Corruption Bureau operates under the Rajasthan government. It investigates complaints, apprehends those involved in bribery, and registers cases. Following this, the Personnel Department, which is also part of the Rajasthan government, must approve the prosecution. Historically, the Personnel Department has been aligned with the Chief Minister. Currently, Bhajanlal Sharma oversees the Personnel Department, while Ashok Gehlot held the position during the Congress rule. Despite these circumstances, prosecution approvals were not granted under Gehlot’s tenure, and similar inaction continues now, with no legal action being taken against influential bribers.

Political pressure is a reason

Political pressure is also significant factor behind the lack of prosecution approvals. It is believed that once officers are implicated, they exert considerable efforts to prevent the government from granting approval for their prosecution. Additionally, when there is a change in government, new lobbying efforts are initiated within the new administration. This ongoing influence and manipulation contribute to the prolonged list of cases awaiting legal action.

These influential people are escaping due to non-receipt of prosecution sanction…

Nirmala Meena (IAS) – Prosecution sanction pending since 10 July 2018
Nannumal Pahadiya (Retired IAS) Prosecution sanction pending since 28 June 2022
Vishram Meena (IAS) – Prosecution sanction pending since 19 July 2023
Pushkar Mittal (RAS) – Prosecution sanction pending since 17 March 2021
Pinky Meena (RAS) – Prosecution sanction pending since 17 March 2021
Dataram (RAS) – Prosecution sanction pending since 12 February 2021
Laxmikant Balot (RAS) – Prosecution sanction pending since 12 February 2021
Nishu Agnihotri (RAS) – Prosecution sanction pending since 6 October 2022
Bhaironlal Verma (Retd. RAS) – Prosecution Sanction pending since 9 March 2023
Mohanlal Gupta (Retd. RAS) – Prosecution Sanction pending since 2 August 2023
Mahesh Gagoria (RAS) – Prosecution Sanction pending since 3 June 2024
Ramjilal Verma (Retd. RAS) – Prosecution Sanction pending since 10 July 2024
Ash Mohammad (Retd. RPS) – Prosecution Sanction pending since 22 October 2019
Satyapal Middha (Retd. RPS) – Prosecution Sanction pending since 16 November 2021
Virendra Kumar (Retd. RPS) – Prosecution Sanction pending since 24 January 2022
Sugan Chand Panwar (RPS) – Prosecution Sanction pending since 8 March 2022
Divya Mittal (RPS) – Prosecution approval pending since 27 March 2023
Jitendra Kumar Jain (RPS) – Prosecution approval pending since 10 May 2023
Divya Mittal (RPS) – Prosecution approval pending since 12 June 2023

Dr. Ravi Prakash Meharda, DG, ACB says that, ‘We keep sending reminders to the Personnel Department from time to time regarding the matter of prosecution approval. Whenever there is a meeting with the Personnel Department on this matter, these matters are kept on priority.’

CC Ratnu, Senior Advocate, Rajasthan High Court said that, ‘One department of the government believes that corruption has taken place and also confirms it in the investigation. On the other hand, another department of the government is negligent or delays in giving prosecution approval and many times approval is not given at all. Along with this, those who have been found involved in corruption are also obliged by giving field posting. Which highlights the contradictory behavior of the government.’

Ukrainian Deputy Minister Arrested In $500,000 Bribery Scandal

August 12, 2024, 3:28 pm

A Ukrainian deputy energy minister has been arrested on charges of accepting a bribe worth half a million dollars, along with three alleged accomplices, as announced by Ukraine’s SBU Security Service on Monday.

The minister, whose name was initially withheld by the SBU, allegedly demanded payments from mining industry officials in exchange for allowing the transfer of valuable equipment from mines in the frontline eastern Donetsk region to a coal basin in western Ukraine. The equipment in question is described as unique and critical, belonging to a state-owned coal company in Pokrovsk, an area heavily impacted by ongoing conflict.

In the spring of 2024, representatives from the mining sector reportedly approached the deputy minister to seek permission to evacuate the equipment from the war zone and repurpose it at mines in a safer western region. However, instead of granting the necessary permissions, the official, who was responsible for safeguarding the mining equipment, demanded a significant sum of money for its release.

The SBU’s investigation led to the arrest of the minister and his three accomplices, who were caught “red-handed” after the minister had received a portion of the bribe. While the identities of the suspects were initially kept confidential, Ukrainian opposition MP Yaroslav Zheleznyak later identified the minister as Oleksandr Kheilo, a deputy energy minister. Following the arrest, Ukraine’s Cabinet of Ministers issued an order to dismiss Kheilo from his position.

Ukraine, which has been grappling with corruption issues even before Russia’s invasion in 2022, has vowed to intensify its anti-corruption efforts as part of its bid for European Union membership and to maintain the trust of its Western allies. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who campaigned on a platform of eradicating corruption, has previously dismissed several officials, including his defense minister, over corruption scandals within the military.

CBI arrests ED official for accepting bribe of Rs 20 lakh

August 8, 2024, 3:13 pm

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on Thursday arrested an Assistant Director of the Enforcement Directorate (ED) for accepting bribes of Rs 20 lakh in the national capital.

The arrested ED official has been identified as Sandeep Singh Yadav. He was accepting a bribe from a jeweller in lieu of giving relief to the jeweller’s son in the case registered in ED.

A senior CBI official confirmed that the ED official has been arrested from the Lajpat Nagar area in Delhi.

CBI received a complaint and acting on the same, a trap was laid and the ED official was caught red-handed while accepting the bribe.

CBI is in the process of getting an FIR registered in the case, said officials.

More updates on the matter are awaited.

Notably, in Aug 2023, the CBI arrested an Assistant Director of ED along with six other officials for accepting bribes of Rs 5 crore to save Delhi businessman Aman Dhall in the Delhi liquor scam case.

2024 Exam Crisis In India: Technology Failures, Corruption, And Student Impact Exposed

August 3, 2024, 10:28 am

In 2024, India has faced serious problems with several important exams, including the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test for undergraduates (NEET UG), the University Grants Commission National Eligibility Test (UGC NET), and the Common University Entrance Test (CUET). These issues have revealed major weaknesses in the exam system and have had significant impacts on everyone involved, especially students.

Reports of exam paper leaks for NEET UG surfaced in states like Bihar and Uttar Pradesh, where question papers were allegedly shared hours before the exams. There were also many technical problems, including server failures and issues with biometric verification systems. The UGC NET, crucial for determining eligibility for teaching and research fellowships, also faced difficulties. The switch to an entirely offline format did not go as planned, and there were reports of paper leaks as well. The CUET, used for undergraduate admissions, encountered its own set of challenges, including poor management, wrong exam center allocations, last-minute schedule changes, and errors in the question papers.

Several underlying factors contributed to these problems. A major issue is the outdated technology used in the exam infrastructure. The rapid move to digital testing hasn’t been matched by improvements in technology and security. Many exam centers are not equipped to handle the technical demands, leading to frequent crashes and software failures. Moreover, the staff managing these systems often lack proper training.

Administrative inefficiencies also play a big role. Centralized management of these exams can result in poor communication and coordination at the local level. This often leads to delays, incorrect center allocations, and other logistical issues. Bureaucratic delays and a lack of accountability among officials add to these problems, making the administration of exams even more complicated.

Corruption and malpractices are significant issues too. The high stakes of these exams make them targets for dishonest practices. Incidents of bribery, organized crime involvement in paper leaks, and unfair means used by candidates undermine the integrity of the exams. These issues not only harm the merit system but also erode public trust in the education system.

The effects on stakeholders are deep and widespread. Students, who are the main stakeholders, are most affected. The stress and uncertainty caused by these problems can lead to severe psychological effects like anxiety, depression, and even suicidal thoughts. The credibility of their hard work is questioned, causing demotivation and disillusionment. Parents, who invest a lot of time, money, and emotion in their children’s education, also suffer. They face financial burdens from repeated exams, additional coaching, and potential legal fees. Regulatory bodies responsible for these exams are under immense pressure to restore trust and ensure smooth and fair exams in the future. They need to implement technological upgrades, improve administrative processes, and tackle corruption.

To tackle these challenges, a comprehensive approach is needed. Improving technology is crucial. This means upgrading hardware and software systems and ensuring strong cybersecurity to prevent leaks and other issues. Regular system audits and stress tests can help identify and fix vulnerabilities. Training staff to handle technical problems effectively is also important.

Administrative reforms are needed as well. Decentralizing some aspects of the exam process can enhance efficiency and accountability. Establishing clear protocols and guidelines, and providing regular training for administrative staff, can help reduce errors and improve overall management. Greater transparency in the allocation of exam centers and the issuance of admit cards can also help minimize confusion.

Combating corruption requires a strong regulatory framework and strict enforcement of anti-corruption measures. This includes punishing those involved in wrongdoing and implementing preventive measures such as better monitoring, stricter verification processes, and advanced technologies like blockchain for secure record-keeping.

Finally, supporting students’ mental health is crucial. Providing counseling services and support systems can help students cope with the stress and anxiety caused by these issues. Educating students and parents about available resources and encouraging open conversations about mental health can help reduce the negative effects of exam-related stress.

Former Indonesian Minister Sentenced To 10 Years For Corruption

July 11, 2024, 3:11 pm

Former Indonesian Agriculture Minister Syahrul Yasin Limpo has been sentenced to 10 years in prison for corruption by Jakarta’s anti-graft court on Thursday. He was found guilty of using his position for personal gain through extortion, abuse of power, and bribery related to ministry contracts. The court also fined him 300 million rupiah ($18,500) with a threat of additional imprisonment if unpaid. Limpo allegedly accepted bribes totaling 44.7 billion rupiah ($2.7 million) between January 2020 and October 2023, using the money for luxury items, political expenses, and donations to his political party, Nasdem.

During the trial, ministry officials testified that Limpo coerced them and vendors to meet his financial demands, risking job loss for non-compliance. Limpo denied the charges, attributing them to political persecution and blaming subordinates for distorting facts.

This case reflects Indonesia’s ongoing struggle with corruption despite efforts by President Joko Widodo’s administration to promote clean governance. The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK), pivotal in anti-corruption efforts, faces challenges from lawmakers aiming to limit its powers.

Limpo’s conviction is part of a broader pattern within Widodo’s government, highlighting governance issues as Indonesia confronts endemic corruption ahead of upcoming elections.

PM Modi Slams Past Corruption, Highlights 5G Rollout And Economic Growth

July 2, 2024, 5:14 pm

Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivered a scathing critique of past governance during a recent address, highlighting the damaging impact of widespread corruption and policy stagnation on India’s development. In his speech, Modi lamented a period he described as marked by rampant corruption, where only a fraction of allocated funds reached their intended beneficiaries.

“There was a period of scams when it was shamelessly accepted publicly that if 1 rupee is sent from Delhi, only 15 paise reaches. In 1 rupee, there is a scam of 85 paise,” PM Modi stated, underscoring the pervasive nature of corruption that he claimed had engulfed the nation in despair.

WATCH VIDEO HERE:

#WATCH | Prime Minister Narendra Modi says, “…There was a period of scams when it was shamelessly accepted publicly that if 1 rupee is sent from Delhi, only 15 paise reaches. In 1 rupee, there is a scam of 85 paise. This world of scams had drowned the country in the depths of… pic.twitter.com/qyAnoKuOsV

— ANI (@ANI) July 2, 2024

Modi also pointed out the challenges faced by ordinary citizens, citing instances where bribery was reportedly required for basic amenities such as housing and gas connections. He criticized the inefficiencies that plagued bureaucratic processes, leading to widespread frustration among the populace.

The Prime Minister contrasted these past shortcomings with recent achievements, including advancements in technology with the upcoming 5G rollout and significant strides in the coal sector. Modi highlighted India’s transformation from being embroiled in the coal scam to becoming a global leader in coal production. He also commended the resilience and success of Indian banks amid challenging economic conditions.

Modi’s address emphasized a narrative of progress and reform under his government, aiming to restore trust in public institutions and foster economic growth across sectors.

The Downfall Of FC Barcelona: A Once Great Football Club, Now In Ruins

June 11, 2024, 2:12 pm

The origins of Barcelona’s financial woes can be traced back to 2010, a year that marked the end of Joan Laporta’s presidency due to term limits.

Rosell’s Presidency Tenure

The end of Joan Laporta’s presidency brought in Rosell. While Laporta was essentially taking suggestions from Cruyff and delegating them to the appropriate club members, one of the first things Rosell did was strip Cruyff of his title as the honorary president.

Rosell’s tenure was marred by controversy and alleged corruption, particularly surrounding Neymar’s transfer, which was partially financed by the dubious sale of Thiago Alcântara to Bayern Munich. Thiago’s contract included a €90 million release clause that would plummet to €18 million if he didn’t play a certain number of games. Strangely, despite his strong performances, Thiago was sidelined enough to trigger this lower release clause, during a period when manager Tito Vilanova was battling cancer. It’s speculated that Rosell influenced assistant manager Jordi Roura to bench Thiago, allowing the club to profit and shifting blame onto the player, who subsequently left for Bayern.

Rosell eventually resigned amidst the Neymar scandal, paving the way for his deputy, Josep Maria Bartomeu.

Bartomeu’s Presidency Tenure

Initially, Bartomeu enjoyed success, highlighted by Barcelona’s treble-winning season with the formidable Messi-Suárez-Neymar (MSN) trio under Luis Enrique. However, his administration’s deeper issues soon surfaced. Critics argue that Bartomeu’s actions transcended mere incompetence, suggesting ulterior motives possibly tied to his past with RCD Espanyol.

Under Bartomeu, Barcelona engaged in a series of misguided signings and managerial appointments. High-profile acquisitions like Philippe Coutinho, Antoine Griezmann, and Ousmane Dembélé failed to meet expectations, leading to substantial financial losses. Notably, the club overlooked Kylian Mbappé in favor of Dembélé, stating the former played for himself while the latter played for the team. Misguided attempts to replace club legends like Iniesta with ill-fitting players like Coutinho further strained the budget. The managerial choices, from Ernesto Valverde’s dependence on individual brilliance to Quique Setién’s lackluster tenure, only exacerbated the club’s decline.

Furthermore, Bartomeu’s administration allegedly engaged in nefarious activities, including hiring a media company to slander players and their families. The wage structure became unsustainable, with exorbitant salaries awarded under the guise of loyalty, severely limiting the club’s financial flexibility.

The socios, Barcelona’s voting members, eventually recognized the mismanagement, leading to Bartomeu’s resignation and Laporta’s return.

Laporta’s Second Presidency Tenure

Everype thought that with Laporta’s return, he would bring back the magic of his first tenure , however, without Cruyff’s influence, Laporta’s leadership mirrored the mistakes of his predecessor, with poor signings and managerial choices continuing to plague the club. Laporta’s faith in club legend Xavi as manager, despite better options being available, highlighted the ongoing lack of strategic vision.

The Financial Pressures

Barcelona’s financial mismanagement culminated in a bloated wage bill and massive debt, exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic’s impact on revenue streams. By 2021, the debt had soared past €1 billion, compelling the club to offload high-earning players at reduced prices. Financial constraints prevented the renewal of Lionel Messi’s contract under La Liga’s salary cap, resulting in his departure to Paris Saint-Germain.

The combination of excessive salaries, costly transfers, and chronic mismanagement plunged Barcelona into severe financial distress. This situation significantly undermined the club’s ability to retain top talent and maintain its competitive edge, with former financial advisor Marc Ciria estimating the debt could escalate to €3 billion.

Overall, the mismanagement of the Club and its funds has led to Barcelona’s financial ruin and further, its downfall as a club.

Drowning In Corruption: Bihar Deputy CM Samrat Chaudhary Slams Lalu Prasad’s Family

May 22, 2024, 3:50 pm

Bihar Deputy Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary has once again leveled serious accusations against Lalu Prasad Yadav and his family, asserting they are deeply involved in corrupt activities. He further claimed that the bodyguards of Lalu Yadav and Rabri Devi are being misused, leading to repeated disruptions at polling booths.

While addressing the media, Choudhary said, “The entire Lalu Prasad family is mired in corruption. Public order is being consistently undermined. There needs to be an investigation into the misuse of Lalu Prasad’s and Rabri Devi’s bodyguards, particularly concerning the Chapra incident.”

Earlier, on May 19, Choudhary launched a strong attack on former Chief Minister Lalu Prasad Yadav, accusing him of nepotism and prioritizing his family within the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD). He contrasted this with the BJP’s approach, which he claimed is focused on grassroots engagement and equal treatment for all members, free from nepotism.

“RJD depends on caste politics and controls only about 20 to 25 percent of the vote. Even if they win, Lalu Ji will only pass power within his family. When RJD was in government, Tejashwi was the Deputy Chief Minister, and in opposition, he led the opposition with his mother by his side. Lalu Ji will never grant significant positions to outsiders,” Choudhary asserted.

Bihar, with its 40 Lok Sabha constituencies, plays a critical role in Indian politics. The elections are being conducted in seven phases. The RJD, part of the Mahagathbandhan (Grand Alliance), is contesting 26 seats. In contrast, the NDA, comprising the BJP and JD(U), will contest 17 and 16 seats, respectively. The election results are set to be announced on June 4.

Vietnam: Real Estate Tycoon Truong My Lan Receives Death Sentence in Massive Fraud Case

April 11, 2024, 11:55 pm

Prominent real estate tycoon Truong My Lan, was handed a death sentence by a court in Ho Chi Minh City for her involvement in the nation’s largest fraud case according to reports from state media.

Lan (67) arrested in 2022, serves as the chair of Van Thinh Phat, a prominent real estate firm. She stands accused of perpetrating a $12 billion fraud, equivalent to nearly 3% of Vietnam’s 2022 GDP, as reported by The Associated Press, citing Vietnam’s Thanh Nien.

During the period spanning 2012 to 2022, Lan illicitly managed the Saigon Joint Stock Commercial Bank, funneling funds through numerous ghost companies and offering bribes to government officials.

Lan’s arrest was one of the most notable in an extensive anti-corruption campaign that has gained momentum since 2022. This campaign, known as the ‘Blazing Furnace,’ has even targeted prominent Vietnamese politicians.

Last month, Vo Van Thuong resigned from his position after being implicated in the anti-corruption efforts.

Van Thinh Phat stands as one of Vietnam’s wealthiest real estate enterprises, boasting projects encompassing luxury residential complexes, office spaces, shopping centers, and hotels.

The magnitude of the fraud raised concerns among analysts, particularly as Vietnam aimed to establish itself as an alternative destination for investors seeking to diversify their supply chains away from China.

In 2023, approximately 1,300 property firms reportedly exited Vietnam’s real estate market, inflicting significant damage on the sector.

As per reports from state media, developers have resorted to offering discounts and gold as incentives to attract buyers. Despite a one-third decline in shophouse rents in Ho Chi Minh City, numerous properties in the city center remain unoccupied.

Vietnam’s top politician, Communist Party General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong, stated in November of last year that the anti-corruption campaign would “continue for the long term.”

Electoral bonds in the politico-legal landscape and change in dynamics of elections

June 28, 2023, 9:08 pm

A bull may have good qualities, but you will never bring them out by waving a red flag in the face. This is often suited most to the precarious situation of expecting the national or state legislature (read it as a tag team of political parties) to self-tighten the noose of political funding and ensuring the elections in most idealistic ways. Consequent to this, it is also not possible to expect the class of T.N. Sheshan at display in regulatory bodies. Therefore, we often find election funding instruments as a major grey area in our politico-legal landscape.
Taking a cue out of this, and of course to declare a transparency and fairness in our election funding, a new instrument named Electoral Bonds was introduced in 2018. They allow individuals and corporate entities to make donations to political parties anonymously. These bonds can be purchased from authorized banks and are then submitted to political parties, which can encash them within a specified period. The identity of the donor remains confidential, creating a veil of secrecy around political funding. A report suggests that over a period of 2018-2022, massive chunk of money amounting to Rs 9,208 crore was generated through these bonds. The lack of disclosure requirements regarding the identity of donors stands out to be its most prominent feature out of all for this substantial source.
Furthermore, electoral bonds have led to a shift in the dynamics of election campaigning and has opened the door ajar for diverse funding options. With the availability of large sums of money through these bonds, political parties may have an advantage over smaller parties or independent candidates who do not have access to similar funding sources.
Any innovation brings along with it certain positive factors and ease of life as well. The electoral bonds provide anonymity to donors, protecting them from potential backlash or reprisals for their political contributions. This can encourage individuals and corporate entities to participate in political funding without fear of retribution. The electoral bonds have consistently helped to shift political donations from cash-based transactions to a more formalized system. By channelling funds through authorized banks, electoral bonds aim to encourage legitimate and transparent sources of funding.
Furthermore, electoral bonds provide a streamlined process for making political donations. They can be easily purchased from authorized banks, making the transaction more convenient for donors. This can potentially increase the ease of political funding, encouraging more individuals and corporate entities to contribute. Consequent to this, the proponents highlight that electoral bonds can contribute to political stability by ensuring a steady flow of funds to political parties. This can enable parties to focus on their ideological objectives and policymaking rather than constantly seeking funds for electoral campaigns. Regional parties, especially those with limited access to traditional sources of political funding, can see electoral bonds as an opportunity to compete on a more level playing field with national parties. The availability of funds through electoral bonds can help regional parties bridge the financial gap and effectively challenge larger political entities during elections.
However, the USP of electoral bonds of anonymity brings in certain doubts about their actual effectiveness. We can gauge that this secrecy can lure the inflow of illicit funds into the political system, undermining transparency, and accountability in political funding. Electoral bonds raise concerns about the potential for corruption and the influence of undisclosed corporate interests on political parties. Without knowing the identity of donors, it becomes difficult to assess any potential quid pro quo arrangements or undue influence on policy decisions.
The constant monitoring of money inflow from clean source and the regularization of undisclosed funds pouring in chunks in our political system may cripple the hands of agencies due to lack of any direct evidence establishing a money trail. Without information about the funding sources of political parties, citizens may find it challenging to assess the financial interests and potential conflicts of interest that parties may have. Keeping the eyes closed doesn’t take away the danger. The rapid advancement of financial technology poses challenges for the implementation of election laws. As new digital platforms and tools emerge, election authorities need to adapt and update their regulations to address issues such as online campaigning, cyber-security, and the use of social media. Keeping pace with technological advancements requires constant monitoring and periodic updates to the laws.
Electoral bonds and election laws in India are interconnected, shaping the landscape of political funding and electoral campaigns. It is crucial to strike a balance between promoting legitimate sources of funding and ensuring transparency, accountability, and fairness in the electoral system. Continued discussions, reforms, and public participation are essential to address these concerns and strengthen the integrity of India’s election laws. India’s election laws form the backbone of its democratic system, aiming to ensure a level playing field, fair competition, and transparent governance.
The introduction of electoral bonds has brought a new dimension to the political funding landscape. It has brought all the major players like corporate entities, authorized banks, political parties etc in a common circular loop, with the aim of preserving donor anonymity while facilitating legitimate contributions. The underlying principle was to encourage clean and accountable funding, thereby reducing the influence of black money and illegal donations. But what remains to be seen is that in the face of challenges, does our system have the stamina within to take the bull by its horns or else allegations remain the soup of primetime TV debates.

Dr Deepankar Sharma works as an Assistant Professor of Law (Senior Scale) at Manipal University Jaipur and as an Honorary Fellow at Asian Institute of International Financial Laws at University of Hong Kong. He is a member of Network of Indian Competition Experts at Competition Commission of India. Dr Vini Kewaliya is working as an Assistant Professor of Law (Senior Scale) and as Assistant Controller of Examinations at Manipal University Jaipur.

‘Violence and corruption new normal in Bengal’: Anurag Thakur slams Mamata

June 12, 2023, 2:54 pm

Union Minister and BJP leader Anurag Thakur hit out at the West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee and Trinamool Congress for the increase in violence ahead of the upcoming Panchayat elections in the state.According to Thakur, violence and corruption are the new normal in West Bengal. “Violence and corruption are the new normal in Bengal. Violence has increased ahead of the upcoming Panchayat Elections. Bengal is known for ‘cash for the job,” said Union Minister Anurag Thakur.

“During UPA there was so much corruption but today in PM Narendra Modi’s government there is no corruption,” he added.The West Bengal panchayat elections will be held in a single phase on July 8. The counting of votes will be done on July 11.Earlier the West Bengal Congress chief Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury on Saturday alleged that the Trinamool Congress (TMC) government was creating an atmosphere of fear in West Bengal in the run-up to the panchayat polls.

Punjabi University suspends senior faculty member.

May 13, 2023, 1:16 am

PATIALA : The Punjabi University has suspended a senior faculty member following allegations he holds the permanent residency (PR) of another country. Pushpinder Singh Gill, a professor at the School of Management Studies, was placed under suspension on Thursday. The university said Gill did not inform it or the government authorities nor sought permission before getting the PR of another country. The professor has denied the allegations and accused the university administration of targeting him for raising his voice against corruption.

Sachin Pilot’s Jan Sangharsh Yatra’ enters Day 2

May 12, 2023, 4:50 pm

On Friday, Congress leader Sachin Pilot’s “Jan Sangharsh Yatra” entered its second day amidst political commotion in Rajasthan.The 125-kilometer yatra from Ajmer to Jaipur concentrates on pressing issues like paper leakage and corruption. Pilot walked about 25 kilometres on the first day from Ajmer to Tolamal village in Kishangarh to challenge Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot and the party’s top leadership as the state assembly elections draw closer.

“Even though it’s May and the height of summer, people are still out on the streets because the concerns I’ve brought up are still important. We are impacted by issues with corruption and issues with the future of our youth. On the second day of his yatra, Pilot said, “We hope our state government will take notice of the issues I have raised.

According to reports, the five-day yatra mounts further pressure on the party leadership as it hopes to retain the state in the elections at the end of the year. “I am taking out this yatra to raise my voice, to hear your voice, and to become the voice of the people,” Pilot said at the start of the ‘padyatra’.Earlier on Tuesday (May 9), Pliot announced that he will take out a ‘Jan Sangharsh Yatra’ against the “inaction of the Rajasthan government” with regard to the alleged corruption during the previous Vasundhara Raje-led BJP government in the state.

Tamil Nadu BJP chief releases ‘DMK Files’ claim of exposing all scams of stalin govt

April 14, 2023, 2:13 pm

Tamil Nadu BJP state presindent K Annamalai on Friday released ‘DMK Files’ alleging DMK top ministers and CM MK Stalin’s family members of having unaccounted assets.

While addressing the mediapersons, Annamalai said, “We have released DMK files part 1 today. It is going to be a series throughout the year. We have only disclosed the direct assets, their shareholdings in a company and the valuation of the properties they own.” He added, “We haven’t gone beyond it. The most concerning question is, how is DMK becoming part of the largest money laundering business worldwide.”
He stated, “We want to reflect the true vision of PM Modi, that we’re a party which takes up issues that matters to the public.”

“We’re starting a ‘Padyatra’ to expose DMK scams from the first week of June, our party leaders will walk across Tamil Nadu,” Annamalai said.
“Not only DMK scams, but we will oppose scams by all parties. I will open up everything to the Tamil Nadu people. Let’s see who the Tamil Nadu people are going to vote for. This is a fight against corruption and not just our fight against one party. I will not stop here.” he further stated.

He added, “My land, my people. We are starting a Yatra to expose all these DMK scams to people. Each BJP cadre would go to this Yatra. This Yatra will begin in the first week of June. You all should participate in this Yatra.”

On April 4, K Annamalai lashed out at the Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin over his remarks regarding social justice.The state BJP chief pointed out that the DMK government had objected to the reservation for the Economically Weaker Section (EWS).

‘Congress knows art of corruption and corruption through art’: Anurag Thakur

March 14, 2023, 3:01 pm

Launching an attack on Congress, Union Minister Anurag Thakur on Tuesday said that the party knows the “art of corruption and corruption through art.” Thakur’s remarks follow a recent report published by global watchdog Financial Action Task Force (FATF), a body that deals with anti-money laundering measures related to terror financing and has mentioned Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra in one of its case studies.

In its recent report titled Money Laundering and Terrorist Financing in the Art and Antiquities Market, the FATF alleged that Rana Kapoor, the former CEO of Yes Bank, bought a mediocre painting from Priyanka Gandhi for Rs 2 crore. Addressing a press conference here today, the Union Minister said, “Congress knows the art of corruption and corruption through art. They are running a campaign against the country. They should apologize to the nation and stop their Cambridge cries.”

He further said that organizations investigating terror-funding cases are now conducting a case study on the corruption model of the Congress. Earlier on Monday, Thakur said the FATF had published a case study on how a former Union Minister in the UPA government had put pressure on an individual. He further asked Priyanka Gandhi to answer and reveal the identity of “Mr. R.” referred to in the FATF report.

Reacting to the allegations of Thakur, Congress leader Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury said that the BJP was indulging in a ‘conspiracy’. “If they want to do a conspiracy, then they can, but we don’t care,” said Chowdhury. Congress MP Pramod Tiwari claimed that Anurag Thakur was “in pain” because Congress formed the government in Himachal Pradesh, where Prime Minister Narendra Modi campaigned.

Shiv Sena (Uddav Thackeray faction) leader Priyanka Chaturvedi said that it seemed that the Information and Broadcasting Ministry was tasked with the job of leveling allegations against the Gandhi family.

Congress den of corruption: CM Bommai

March 6, 2023, 2:48 pm

Hubballi: Karnataka Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai described the Congress Party as the den of corruption. Reacting to the bandh call given by the Congress party on 9 March against corruption, the CM told reporters here on Monday that the scams done by the Congress party are not one or two.

The time has come for that party to become extinct. Those leaders have given a call for a bandh, thinking that they can write their political future through protests. It is like they are daydreaming, and none will support it.

Basavaraj Bommai went on to say that people who make allegations must be clean-handed, and then they will have some value. But the Congress leaders have indulged in a number of corruption cases, starting from small items like pillows, mattresses, coffee, and biscuits all the way to irrigation.

When Siddaramaiah was the Chief Minister of Karnataka, he set a target for all the ministers. Ask M B.Patil, Dr H C. Mahadevappa, or K J. George about the target assigned to them. The Congress Party is replete with corruption, and their approach will not entice the voters. The people will give a befitting reply during the upcoming state assembly election.

Reacting to a question regarding the re-inauguration of the Shivaji Maharaj statue in Belagavi, he said the previous CM, B. S. Yediyurappa, had released Rs 50 lakh for this purpose. The Congress leaders have done this drama purely for the false prestige. It is not correct to politicise in the name of the national leaders.

On the arrest of one person in connection with the Mangalore cooker blast case, the CM said ISIS, an international terror organization, has claimed responsibility for it. The KPCC President, D.K. Shivakumar, had termed this incident a normal bomb. Now, what will Shivakumar say?

ASI arrested for taking bribe

December 16, 2022, 8:02 am

An assistant sub-inspector (ASI), Lakhwinder Singh, has been arrested by the Punjab vigilance bureau on Thursday for taking a Rs 5000 bribe. Singh was posted at Bholath police station in Kapurthala district. At the chief minister’s anti-corruption helpline complaint was filed after which action was taken against the ASI. Meanwhile, the complaint was filed by Avtar Singh of Akala village. However, for filing an FIR ASI demanded a Rs 5000 bribe.

‘Kejriwal is following Lalu Prasad Yadav’s ‘loot’ model’, says Anurag Thakur

December 3, 2022, 6:00 pm

Taking a dig at Aam Aadmi Party Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader and Union Minister Anurag Thakur said the AAP government is following Lalu Prasad Yadav’s “loot” model.

Addressing a press conference Union Minister Anurag Thakur on Saturday said, “Earlier, we saw ‘Chaara Ghotala’, now, there is a government, whose name is involved in not one but several corruptions. Arvind Kejriwal has presented a new model of corruption. Lalu Prasad Yadav’s ‘loot’ model is being followed by Kejriwal in Delhi.”

Firing a fresh salvo Union Minister said, if he brings all the documents of corruption then a truck would be needed.

“The AAP government is involved in liquor, education, and DTC bus scams. Now, they have even deprived laborers of their rights. If I have to bring all the documents of his corruption, I would need a truck I want to ask Arvind Kejriwal if he is even able to sleep properly at night,” Thakur said.

Meanwhile, Union Minister Thakur said, in the name of laborers Delhi government has “misallocated” funds into “fake” accounts.

Union Minister Thakur further stated, “If we look at the documents, it is very clear that they have allocated fake jobs to fake people with fake mobile numbers, some of them being traced in even Haryana and Andhra Pradesh. So, the money that was to be given to the laborers, was given to Arvind Kejriwal and his ‘friends’. They have robbed the laborers of their rights.”

Ahead of MCD elections Information and Broadcasting Minister Anurag Thakur has exuded confidence that BJP will win the MCD elections.

“The corrupt Aam Adami party has many frauds, from the health minister who is in jail to the education minister trapped in liquor swindle; it is the party of liars,” Thakur said.

Moreover, Thakur further said, “Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has only three main agendas and these are alcohol, corruption, and fraud.”

However, on 4 December the Municipal Corporation of Delhi will be held to the 250-ward and counting will take place on 7 December.

Sole aim of DMK is ‘corruption, collection, commission’, says AIADMK leader

November 24, 2022, 3:40 pm

Along with other senior leaders, Edappadi Palaniswami (EPS), the interim general secretary of the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK), and the leader of the opposition in Tamil Nadu travelled to the Raj Bhavan on Wednesday to express their concerns to governor R N Ravi about the state’s deteriorating law and order situation and to make accusations of corruption against the DMK, which is currently in power.

EPS alleged the “sole aim” of the ruling DMK government is “corruption, collection, and commission” besides failure to maintain law and order. He handed over an 18-page document to the governor. “He (governor) told us that he will read everything and inquire,” said EPS talking to reporters after the meeting.

Crime including murders has become a daily affair and ‘’all this was happening due to an inefficient puppet chief minister ruling the state’’, Palaniswami said.

On the Coimbatore blast, he said the October 23 Coimbatore car explosion, in which the alleged perpetrator was killed, could have been averted if the government acted in time.

Before the case was turned over to the National Investigation Agency, he charged Chief Minister M K Stalin with being unconcerned about it.

EPS said it is not only, “a failure of the state intelligence agency but also shows the incompetence of the state police.”

Meanwhile, Ravi’s removal as governor has been requested by legislators from the DMK-led Secular Progressive Alliance, who accuse him of acting in an unlawful manner.

On November 9, DMK and its allies sent a letter to the president claiming that the governor was making anti-communal remarks. As of his appointment in September 2021, the governor has not taken any action on the 20 bills passed by the Tamil Nadu legislative assembly, according to the DMK.

On this, EPS opined the governor is functioning as he should be. “That is why the corrupt DMK is calling the governor a bad person,” EPS said. “As a responsible opposition, we have given the complaints to him. Only the governor can investigate it,” he added.

The riots that occurred in Kallakurichi in July after a school student committed suicide were another concern that the AIADMK raised in their complaint. EPS urged the governor to act after accusing the DMK of operating open-air drug and alcohol shops inside their command.

“While drugs were free-flowing, on the contrary medicines were running short in government hospitals. Every department is corrupt,” EPS alleged.

Former ministers and prominent figures C V Shanmugham, S P Velumani, D Jayakumar, as well as Natham R Viswanathan, Dindigul Srinivasan, and K P Munusamy, accompanied EPS.

AAP’s manifesto released by Delhi CM Kejriwal for MCD polls

November 11, 2022, 1:39 pm

Arvind Kejriwal, Delhi CM and Aam Aadmi Party (AAP)’s national convener on Friday released the party’s manifesto for the upcoming Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) elections and promised on fulfilling 10 ‘guarantees’.

“We will work to fulfill 10 guarantees. We will clean the streets of Delhi and solve the issue of Garbage Mountains, and beautification of parks will be done,” said Delhi CM. He further promised of making MCD corruption free and to solve vehicle-parking problems as part of his manifesto for the MCD polls. He assured to pay the MCD workers on time.

On November 9, CM Kejriwal presided over a meeting in the national capital with senior officials. Prior to that, AAP MLAs participated in an important meeting led by the deputy chief minister Manish Sisodia and the party’s state convenor and minister Gopal Rai, where they were given tasks at various levels to do in order to get ready for civic body elections in all 250 MCD seats.

The AAP has also started the “Kude Par Jansamvad” campaign as part of its civic body election preparations, in which AAP representatives would listen to people’s garbage problems and discuss their solutions through Jansamvad.

The party intends to host a public discussion in each of Delhi’s 13682 booths by November 20. About 500 people will attend the party, it has been decided.

All AAP office holders have been ordered to travel to all neighbourhoods in Delhi, speak with residents, and attempt to comprehend their problems.

Elections for 250 MCD seats in Delhi’s civic bodies will take place on December 4 as announced by the Election Commission. The election nomination process has also begun.

The deadline for nominations is November 14, and the forms will be reviewed on November 16. November 19 is the final day for withdrawing nominations.

AAI observed Vigilance Awareness Week with the theme ‘Corruption Free India’

November 7, 2022, 1:58 pm

With the theme ‘Corruption Free India for a Developed Nation’, Airport authority of India observed Vigilance Awareness Week across all its airports and establishments. The chairman of AAI emphasized on the importance of vigilance on the effective operations in the organization. He also compelled everyone to volunteer in the activities with the utmost sincerity.

Amal Garg, CVO, AAI also highlighted the achievements of the Vigilance Department during the last year. He also mentioned that AAI is moving ahead with resoluteness for Corruption Free India for a Developed Nation. During this year’s Vigilance Awareness Week, various activities like elocution, debate, essay, quiz, drawing and slogan competition, and walkathons were conducted for employees and students across the airport to make them aware of the importance of vigilance in an organization.

Rahul Gandhi poked fun on PM’s corruption remark, ‘40% commission’, FM

October 22, 2022, 12:55 pm

In Karnataka, where he is conducting the Congress’s Bharat Jodo Yatra, the party’s mass contact campaign with an eye toward the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, Rahul Gandhi stepped up his criticism of the BJP on Friday. His most recent tweet made reference to both Nirmala Sitharaman, India’s finance minister, and the currency, as well as the party’s frequent “40% commission” jabs at the Basavaraj Bommai administration.

Won’t let eat’ is only (a slogan) for those who are poor, deprived and suffering from hunger. In Karnataka, the BJP government is free to eat ‘40 per cent commission,” Rahul Gandhi wrote in Hindi. He was talking about Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s promise to end corruption when he said: “Na khaunga, na khane doonga (I won’t eat, and I won’t let them eat)”.

Following allegations that government employees were asked to pay a 40% commission for their services, the Karnataka administration has come under fire from the Congress.

“Hoping the PM now does not say now – ‘It’s not the corruption that’s rising but fuel is falling short for the double-engine government.” The “double-engine government” refers to the BJP governments in states, and at the Centre, which according to the party’s leaders, has helped in delivering public services effectively.

Rahul Gandhi intended his post to retaliate against Sitharaman, who said last week that “the rupee is not falling, but the dollar is strengthening.” Although there has been a lot of backlash, some have contended that what the FM actually meant was that the Indian rupee has been doing better than the decrease other foreign currencies have experienced.

BJP accuses CM Kejriwal of corruption in electricity discoms

October 6, 2022, 9:47 pm

BJP on Thursday leveled another corruption charge against the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP). This time, party spokespersons Syed Zafar Islam and Harish Khurana accused Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal of appointing chosen officials to facilitate corruption in the electricity companies and prevent audits.
BJP spokesperson Syed Zafar Islam pointed out the Delhi Chief Minister’s previous promises and accused him of “stealing” electricity. In 2013, Kejriwal used to accuse the two companies of the Anil Ambani group and Tata Discom of being “thieves”. I want to ask what happened that the man who used to talk about stopping electricity theft, is himself stealing electricity,” Islam said.
“BSES Rajdhani Power Limited (BRPS) and BSES Yamuna Power Limited (BYPL). In both these companies, 51% of the shares are with Anil Ambani and the remaining 49% with the Delhi Government. “Since the Delhi government also had a 49% stake, the government used to keep retired IAS officers, retired Finance Secretaries, and retired Revenue Secretaries as its representatives to protect their interests,” the BJP leader continued. But, Kejriwal Ji removed them and appointed his own pawns to protect his own interests and facilitate corruption. ND Gupta and Jasmine Shah are known for corruption. Kejriwal has kept them as his pawns,” Islam said
He also alleged Kejriwal of stopping the audit of the government funding and accused him of corruption by giving commissions. “The Kejriwal government took a decision in 2016 that audits will be conducted every year. But, he didn’t follow his own decision. Because, if the audit had been done, it would have revealed how much money went to the public and how much to the beneficiaries, “Islam said.” Islam said.
BJP spokesperson Harish Khurana also attacked the Kejriwal government, saying, “When the AAP government came, Kejriwal used to say that we would waive off all the electricity bills and the electricity bills would be the lowest in Delhi. He also used to accuse the power discom of being thieves”. He claimed that the public has no idea of how their money had been spent and demanded an audit of government spending.
“A total of Rs 16,233 crores has been extracted as fixed charges in the last five years. Rs 12,408 crores were given as subsidies between 2015 and 21. 2,677 crores were given as a surcharge, the regulatory assets were worth 9,195 crores, and 3,900 crores were paid for the power purchase agreement. But, the total figure stands at Rs 49,636 crores”, Khurana said.
“No one knows the calculation of this Rs 49,000 crores. I want to ask, do the people of Delhi don’t have the right to know how their money has been used? We are only asking what the Kejriwal government promised. We demand the whole audit of the government spending,” Khurana said.
The allegation comes amid a spate of corruption cases being investigated against several AAP leaders, including Manish Sisodia, Satyendra Jain, Amantullah Khan, etc.