In a significant operation against corruption, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has apprehended Dharmender Kumar Verma, an Assistant Accounts Officer (AAO) stationed at the Public Accounts Office of the Border Security Force (BSF). Verma was accused of soliciting and receiving a bribe from a contractor in exchange for facilitating the clearance of pending bills.
Officials revealed that Verma’s illicit demand amounted to ₹2 lakh, representing approximately 15-20% of the total bill value. This sum was considered as a necessary payment to expedite the processing and clearance of outstanding payments owed to the contractor. After negotiations, Verma, along with some unidentified associates, reportedly consented to accept the bribe.
On July 18, the CBI executed a planned operation and caught Verma in the act of accepting ₹40,000, which was identified as the initial installment of the total bribe. A spokesperson for the CBI confirmed the arrest, stating, “The accused was caught while taking ₹40,000 from the complainant. Further investigation to identify the involvement of other individuals is ongoing.”
This arrest reflects the CBI’s intensified efforts to address corruption within various government sectors, including security forces. As the investigation continues, authorities are working to uncover any additional networks and determine whether other officials may have participated in the bribery scheme. The move signals a serious crackdown on corrupt practices and underscores the commitment of central agencies to uphold integrity within public offices.
