Patna: Bihar Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe Welfare Minister Lakhendra Paswan has ordered the immediate suspension of a data operator posted at the District Welfare Office in Sitamarhi after receiving a bribery complaint during a public grievance hearing.
The action was taken in line with the Bihar government’s zero-tolerance policy against corruption. The complaint alleged that a bribe was demanded for releasing financial assistance under the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act.
Minister Orders Immediate Suspension Over Bribery Allegations
During a public grievance hearing held on Saturday, a complainant from the Sonbarsa police station area of Sitamarhi district informed the minister that Chandan Kumar, a data operator at the District Welfare Office, had allegedly demanded a bribe to process the release of financial assistance under the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act.
After taking note of the complaint and its preliminary verification, the minister directed the District Welfare Officer, Sitamarhi, to initiate the immediate suspension of the concerned employee.
The swift action reflects the state government‘s commitment to addressing corruption-related complaints without delay.
Complaint Linked to SC/ST Atrocities Act Financial Assistance
According to the complaint, the alleged bribe was sought for releasing grant assistance meant for beneficiaries under the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act.
The financial assistance is provided to eligible victims under the Act, and any attempt to demand illegal payments for its release is considered a serious violation of public service norms.
The minister treated the complaint with urgency and ordered prompt action following the initial confirmation of the allegations.
Government Reiterates Zero-Tolerance Policy on Corruption
Lakhendra Paswan said the Bihar government remains fully committed to protecting the rights of poor, deprived and vulnerable sections of society.
He stated that:
- No official or employee demanding bribes in the name of government schemes will be spared.
- Strict action will be taken against those found exploiting beneficiaries.
- Protecting the rights of SC/ST beneficiaries remains a top priority of the government.
- Corruption in the implementation of welfare schemes will not be tolerated.
The minister emphasized that immediate action against such cases is an important part of the government’s governance and anti-corruption agenda.
Officials Directed to Ensure Transparent and Timely Assistance
The minister also instructed officials to ensure that financial assistance under the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act is released in a transparent, time-bound and hassle-free manner.
The directions include:
- Timely release of grant assistance.
- Transparent processing of beneficiary applications.
- No unnecessary delays in disbursing funds.
- Ensuring beneficiaries receive assistance without facing harassment or illegal demands.
The government aims to strengthen accountability in the implementation of welfare schemes while ensuring that eligible beneficiaries receive the support they are entitled to without any obstacles.
