The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) arrested the principal of a Kendriya Vidyalaya in Itarsi, Madhya Pradesh, along with a middleman for allegedly accepting a bribe of Rs 3 lakh. This bribe was reportedly taken to clear pending bills related to renovation work at the school.
- The principal, Shradda Pathak, allegedly demanded the bribe to process an Rs 8 lakh bill.
- The renovation work was awarded to Bhopal-based firms through the Government e-Marketplace (GeM) portal.
- The CBI laid a trap and caught both accused while accepting the bribe.
- Searches were conducted at their residences and offices, with property documents seized.
- The investigation is ongoing under the Prevention of Corruption Act.
What led to the arrest of the Kendriya Vidyalaya principal?
The arrest followed allegations that the principal, Shradda Pathak, demanded a bribe of Rs 3 lakh to clear a pending bill of Rs 8 lakh. This bill was for renovation work carried out by contractors at the school. The work was awarded through the Government e-Marketplace (GeM) portal, ensuring transparency in the procurement process.
How did the CBI catch the accused?
The CBI set up a trap operation to catch the principal and a middleman named Kirat Singh Sarathe. They were caught red-handed while allegedly accepting the bribe amount. Following the arrest, the CBI conducted searches at their homes and official premises in Itarsi and Agra.
What actions did the CBI take after the arrest?
During the searches, the CBI seized property-related documents that might be linked to the corruption case. These documents will help in further investigation. The case is being pursued under the Prevention of Corruption Act, which deals with offenses related to bribery and misuse of official position.
What is the significance of this case for school administration?
This case highlights the importance of transparency and accountability in managing school funds. The use of the Government e-Marketplace (GeM) portal was meant to ensure fair procurement. However, the alleged bribery shows challenges in preventing corruption even with such systems in place. It stresses the need for strict monitoring and ethical conduct by school officials.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Who was arrested in this case?
A: The principal of the Kendriya Vidyalaya in Itarsi, Shradda Pathak, and a middleman named Kirat Singh Sarathe were arrested.
Q: What was the bribe amount involved?
A: The bribe amount was Rs 3 lakh, demanded to clear a pending bill of Rs 8 lakh.
Q: Under which law is the case registered?
A: The case is registered under the Prevention of Corruption Act.
Q: What was the renovation work related to?
A: The renovation work was carried out by contractors awarded the contract through the Government e-Marketplace (GeM) portal.
Q: What steps did the CBI take after the arrest?
A: The CBI conducted searches at the accused's residences and offices and seized property-related documents for further investigation.
