In a significant crackdown on corruption, a team from the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) arrested a contract computer operator from the 'H' ward office of the Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation for accepting a bribe. The incident also involves a water meter inspector who is currently on the run. The ACB's operation unfolded after a complainant reported that their water bill payment had been calculated on an average basis, leading to irregularities in their water supply. Water meter inspector Vikas Soma Gavane allegedly demanded a bribe of Rs. 1,000 for himself and Rs. 600 for the computer operator, Asha Kanifnath Choupali, to regularize the payment.
Following the complaint, the ACB team promptly verified the information and set a trap for the accused. During the operation, Choupali was apprehended while accepting the bribe amount of Rs. 600. Further investigation revealed that Gavane had instructed her to keep the total amount accepted for herself. A case has been registered against both Gavane and Choupali at the Dapodi police station. While Choupali has been arrested, Gavane remains at large, prompting ongoing efforts by authorities to locate him. This incident highlights the ongoing challenges of corruption within municipal services and the commitment of the ACB to address these issues head-on, ensuring that public services are conducted with integrity and transparency.
