Forester Arrested in Gurez Valley for Demanding and Accepting Bribe, Hindering Government Project

Suhail Rather

Bandipora, June 12: The Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) apprehended a forester in the remote Budugam Tulail area of Gurez valley, Bandipora district, for actively seeking and accepting a bribe.

According to ACB, Mohd Sultan Bhat, the Incharge Block Forester of Budugam Tulail and son of Ab Jabbar Bhat from Ayatmulla Bandipora, was caught red-handed while demanding and receiving a bribe of Rs 30,000 from a contractor. 

The contractor, who as per ACB was carrying out essential work under the Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM) scheme, faced delays due to the lack of forest clearance in the region. The JJM scheme, an initiative by the Government of India, aims to provide safe drinking water to rural households across the country by 2024.

Prompted by a complaint regarding Bhat's corrupt practices, the ACB swiftly initiated an investigation. Taking immediate action, ACB officials successfully executed a trap operation, catching Bhat in the act of accepting the bribe. Subsequently, Bhat was apprehended and is now in custody.

ACB officials lauded the courage of the contractor for reporting the incident, emphasizing their dedication to combating corruption and promoting transparency in public services. The arrested forester will face legal proceedings as he is presented before the court, ensuring appropriate action is taken.