The Bihar government has sanctioned prosecution against 1998-batch IPS officer Mr. Amit Lodha, currently serving as Additional Director General of Police (State Crime Records Bureau). He is facing charges in a disproportionate assets case. However, the approval has been granted only for sections registered under the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS).
In relation to the Prevention of Corruption Act (PC Act), prosecution proceedings can begin only after approval from the Central Government. The Home Department has confirmed that the sanction has been provided for IPC-related charges, while the next steps in the case depend on clearance from the Centre.
Next Steps in the Legal Process
According to officials, once the Central Government grants permission for prosecution under the PC Act, the investigating agency will file a charge sheet in the monitoring court. This move indicates the state’s cautious yet firm approach in following due legal procedure for cases involving senior officers.
The government’s decision comes a month after Mr. Lodha’s promotion to the post of ADG, when a committee was formed to assess the feasibility of prosecution. Based on the committee’s report, the Bihar government approved partial sanction.
Background of the Case
A primary case was registered against Mr. Lodha on December 7, 2022, by the Special Surveillance Unit in connection with the disproportionate assets allegations. He faces charges under Sections 120 (B) and 168 of IPC, along with Sections 13 (1)(B), 13 (2), and 12 of the Prevention of Corruption Act.
Mr. Lodha, a widely known officer, authored the book The Bihar Diary in 2017. The Netflix series Khaki: The Bihar Chapter was later based on his work. However, his recent conduct has come under scrutiny, with allegations of financial irregularities and misuse of office for personal gains.
Governance and Accountability
The decision to sanction prosecution underscores the Bihar government’s emphasis on accountability and transparency within the administrative system. By adhering to procedural checks, the state aims to balance fairness to officers with the responsibility of tackling corruption effectively.
