In a bizarre turn of events, a former district panchayat member in Sidhi, Madhya Pradesh has been accused of attempting to bribe an IAS officer in the name of Diwali sweets. The incident took place at the office of the Additional Collector and District Panchayat CEO, Anshuman Raj, an IAS officer of 2020 batch, who immediately reported the matter to the police, resulting in the arrest of the accused.
According to Anshuman Raj, the CEO of Sidhi District Panchayat, the former district panchayat member, Akhilesh Kushwaha, along with a companion, arrived at his office under the pretense of a casual visit. Kushwaha was reportedly carrying a box of sweets, a gesture common during the festive season. However, upon receiving the box, Raj noticed an envelope hidden beneath the sweets.
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Suspecting foul play, Raj quickly realized that the envelope might contain money intended as a bribe. Without hesitation, he contacted the police station in-charge, and the local authorities arrived promptly. Kushwaha and his companion were escorted to the police station for further questioning.
While the former district panchayat member denied any wrongdoing, claiming that the sweets and money were for personal use, the police have initiated an investigation based on the evidence at hand. “I had never met the District Panchayat CEO before. I brought the sweets as a goodwill gesture. The money inside was mine, for personal expenses. There was no intention of bribing anyone,” said Akhilesh Kushwaha in his defense.
However, the police are treating the matter with seriousness. According to local authorities, the case is under investigation, and further inquiries will be made based on the available evidence. “We are thoroughly looking into the situation, as the matter involves serious allegations of bribery. All actions will be taken in accordance with the law,” said a police spokesperson.
The incident has raised questions about corruption and ethics in the administration, especially as it coincides with the festive season when many people often give gifts and sweets. Authorities have assured the public that the investigation will be fair and transparent.
At this point, the matter remains under investigation, and it is expected that more details will emerge as the case progresses.
