Chandigarh, December 16: In a strong message against corruption, a Mohali court has convicted a serving police officer in a bribery case. The court sentenced Head Constable Sukhwinder Singh to four years rigorous imprisonment.
Additionally, the court imposed a fine of Rs 20,000 on the convicted officer. The verdict followed a successful trap operation conducted by the Punjab Vigilance Bureau.
Officials said the case reflects the state government’s zero tolerance approach against corruption.
The conviction also highlights the Vigilance Bureau’s commitment to accountability in public service.
An official spokesperson of the Vigilance Bureau confirmed the development on Tuesday.
He said the conviction came after strong evidence was presented before the Mohali court.
Bribe Demand Linked to Bail Assistance
According to the Vigilance Bureau, the case dates back to a complaint received earlier this year.
The complainant alleged that Head Constable Sukhwinder Singh demanded a bribe of Rs 10,000.
The accused allegedly promised to help the complainant in facilitating bail in a police matter.
However, the complainant refused to pay the full amount demanded.
Instead, he approached the Vigilance Department and reported the matter.
The department then initiated a verification process as per established legal procedures.
Officials said the complainant cooperated fully with the investigation team.
Moreover, his complaint was supported by audio recordings of the conversation.
After verification, the Vigilance Bureau planned a trap to catch the accused red-handed.
This step ensured transparency and legal compliance throughout the operation.
Vigilance Bureau Lays Trap and Recovers Bribe Money
As part of the trap operation, the complainant agreed to pay Rs 3,000 as the first installment.
The marked currency notes were handed over under strict surveillance protocols.
Soon after the exchange, a Vigilance Bureau team conducted a raid at the designated location.
The team recovered the bribe amount from the possession of Head Constable Sukhwinder Singh.
The recovery took place in the presence of government officials and independent witnesses.
Officials said the accused was apprehended at the spot without resistance.
The vigilance team then completed all procedural formalities on-site.
Subsequently, the accused was taken into custody for further legal action.
The evidence collected during the raid formed the backbone of the prosecution’s case.
Moreover, the recorded conversation strengthened the charges against the accused.
Court Verdict Reinforces Anti-Corruption Drive
During the trial, the prosecution presented documentary, electronic, and oral evidence.
The Mohali court examined all materials and found them legally admissible.
Based on the evidence, the court convicted Sukhwinder Singh under relevant corruption laws.
The court then awarded four years of rigorous imprisonment as punishment.
Additionally, the court imposed a monetary penalty of Rs 20,000.
Officials said the sentence aims to deter corruption within the police force.
The Vigilance Bureau welcomed the verdict and termed it a significant achievement.
It said the ruling strengthens public confidence in the justice system.
The Bureau also reiterated that no public servant is above the law.
It urged citizens to report corruption without fear or hesitation.
Punjab Government Reaffirms Zero Tolerance Policy
Senior officials said the Punjab government remains committed to clean governance.
They stressed that corruption cases will be pursued to their logical conclusion.
The Vigilance Bureau continues to encourage citizens to use official complaint channels.
Moreover, it assures complete confidentiality and protection to whistleblowers.
Officials added that regular monitoring helps identify corruption-prone areas.
This proactive approach improves transparency and administrative efficiency.
The Mohali bribery case now stands as a warning for erring officials.
Authorities believe such convictions will discourage corrupt practices across departments.
The government has repeatedly stated that honesty remains non-negotiable in public service.
Therefore, strict action will continue against those abusing their authority.