Punjab Vigilance Bureau Nabs ASI Red-Handed Taking ₹25,000 Bribe in Amritsar
Chandigarh | May 8, 2025 — In a decisive move reinforcing Punjab’s zero-tolerance stance on corruption, the Punjab Vigilance Bureau (VB) arrested Assistant Sub-Inspector (ASI) Ajaib Singh, in charge of the Khasa police post under Gharinda police station in Amritsar, for demanding and accepting a bribe of ₹25,000.
This arrest aligns with the Bhagwant Singh Mann-led Punjab Government’s commitment to eradicating corruption from the state’s public institutions, especially law enforcement agencies.
Complaint from Local Villager Triggers Vigilance Action
According to an official spokesperson of the Punjab Vigilance Bureau, the action was initiated after a formal complaint was lodged by a resident of village Ghumanpura in Amritsar district.
The complainant alleged that a police case had been filed against his cousin, and ASI Ajaib Singh, who was investigating the matter, had demanded a ₹50,000 bribe in exchange for presenting records favorably in court and assisting in securing bail.
Vigilance Bureau Lays Trap, Catches ASI Red-Handed
After verifying the complaint in a preliminary inquiry, the VB Amritsar Range team set up a trap, as per standard operating procedures under the Prevention of Corruption Act. The operation culminated in the arrest of the ASI while accepting ₹25,000, the first installment of the demanded bribe.
The bribe was accepted in the presence of two government witnesses, ensuring transparency and legal compliance. The evidence was securely documented, and a formal FIR has been registered at the Vigilance Bureau Police Station in Amritsar Range.
The spokesperson confirmed that the accused will be presented before a competent court, and a detailed investigation into the matter is currently underway.
Zero-Tolerance Policy: CM Mann’s Anti-Corruption Drive in Action
This arrest is the latest in a series of swift actions by the Punjab Vigilance Bureau, reflecting the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government’s proactive approach to rooting out corruption across departments.
Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann has consistently emphasized that no official, regardless of rank, will be spared if found guilty of exploiting public trust.
“The law will take its own course. Our fight against corruption is unwavering, and the people of Punjab deserve transparent, accountable governance,” the Chief Minister said in a recent public address.
Vigilance Bureau’s Role in Strengthening Governance
The Punjab Vigilance Bureau has increasingly leveraged technology, community outreach, and anonymous complaint systems to identify corrupt practices within public institutions. Citizens are encouraged to report any unethical or illegal activities by public officials through designated hotlines and digital portals.
Recent initiatives by the VB include:
- Dedicated Anti-Corruption Helpline for complaints and evidence submission
- Awareness campaigns in rural areas to empower citizens
- Frequent monitoring of high-risk departments like police, revenue, and transport
Implications for Police Accountability
The arrest of ASI Ajaib Singh sends a strong message to the law enforcement community, reinforcing that corruption within police ranks will not be tolerated. Incidents like this have often contributed to the erosion of public trust in the police force.
By taking swift action, the Punjab government aims to rebuild institutional credibility, and ensure that citizens receive fair, bias-free legal assistance and due process without the shadow of bribery or intimidation.