Punjab Vigilance Bureau Arrests FCI Quality Control Manager in Rs 50,000 Bribery Sting
Punjab Vigilance Bureau Nabs FCI Officer in Rs 50,000 Bribe Case
Chandigarh, March 27, 2025 — In a major crackdown on corruption, the Punjab Vigilance Bureau (VB) arrested Vikas Kumar, a Quality Control Manager at the Food Corporation of India (FCI), Patiala, after he was caught red-handed accepting a bribe of Rs 50,000. This arrest highlights the Vigilance Bureau’s continued efforts to rid the state of corrupt practices within government institutions.
A Sting Operation Unveils Corruption
The arrest comes after a complaint was lodged by a rice mill owner from Bhunarheri in Patiala district, accusing the FCI officer of demanding a bribe for facilitating the storage of rice shelled from paddy purchased by the Punjab State Cooperative Supply and Marketing Federation (Markfed). The complainant stated that Kumar had initially demanded Rs 1 lakh to approve the storage process but had settled for Rs 50,000.
Upon receiving the complaint, the Punjab Vigilance Bureau initiated a thorough investigation, including a preliminary verification of the allegations. The VB team swiftly planned and executed a trap. During the operation, Kumar was apprehended while receiving the bribe in the presence of two official witnesses, confirming the validity of the complaint.
Vigilance Bureau’s Ongoing Campaign Against Corruption
This operation is part of the Punjab Vigilance Bureau’s ongoing commitment to tackling corruption across the state. The VB has ramped up its efforts in recent months, actively investigating bribery cases and arresting individuals found engaging in illicit activities. The arrest of Vikas Kumar underscores the Bureau’s determination to root out corruption within government institutions and ensure transparency in public dealings.
“The Punjab Vigilance Bureau is committed to eradicating corruption and ensuring that individuals in positions of power are held accountable for their actions. Today’s arrest is another victory in our ongoing campaign,” said an official spokesperson from the VB.
Legal Proceedings and Further Investigation
Following his arrest, Vikas Kumar was booked under relevant sections of the Prevention of Corruption Act. He is set to be presented before a local court in Patiala for further proceedings. The Vigilance Bureau has also launched an in-depth investigation into the case, focusing on uncovering any potential links to larger corruption networks within the Food Corporation of India or other government agencies.
The Vigilance Bureau has assured the public that they will continue to monitor and investigate all allegations of bribery and corruption, regardless of the position or office held by the accused.
A Message to Government Employees
This recent development serves as a stern warning to government employees involved in corrupt practices. The Punjab Vigilance Bureau has made it clear that it will take decisive action against anyone caught accepting bribes, regardless of their position in the government hierarchy. The Bureau’s proactive stance reflects the state government’s commitment to maintaining the integrity of its public services and ensuring that taxpayers’ money is used responsibly.
Public Encouragement for Reporting Corruption
The Punjab Vigilance Bureau also called upon the public to continue reporting instances of corruption and bribery. The Bureau’s ability to uncover such illegal activities is dependent on the vigilance and cooperation of citizens. Whistleblowers and complainants are assured of protection under the law, and the Bureau has set up dedicated channels for reporting corruption anonymously.
“Corruption thrives when citizens stay silent. We encourage the public to come forward with any information they may have about corrupt practices,” added the VB spokesperson.
Conclusion: A Step Toward a Corruption-Free Punjab
With the arrest of Vikas Kumar, the Punjab Vigilance Bureau has sent a clear message: corruption will not be tolerated. This case is a reminder that corruption can be exposed with the right investigative measures, and it demonstrates the effectiveness of vigilant law enforcement in curbing illegal activities.
As investigations continue, this case could serve as a catalyst for further actions against corrupt officials within various departments of the Punjab government. The Vigilance Bureau’s efforts are critical in restoring public trust in government institutions and ensuring that the state functions in a fair and transparent manner.
The vigilance campaign is set to intensify, and with public participation, the state is taking bold steps toward creating a corruption-free future.