AAP Govt intensifies anti-corruption drive : Vigilance Bureau nabs 34 in bribery cases in April

Chandigarh, May 9, 2025 (WISHAVWARTA):- Reinforcing its relentless commitment to curb corruption at all levels, the Punjab Vigilance Bureau (VB) arrested 34 individuals including 23 government officials and 11 private persons in connection with 22 bribery cases during the month of April. All accused were apprehended red-handed while accepting illegal gratification during specially laid trap operations across the state.
An official spokesperson of the VB stated here today that the Bureau, acting under the zero-tolerance policy of the Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann-led Punjab Government, continues to adopt a proactive and uncompromising stance to root out corruption from public offices. “This campaign is not only about taking action but about setting a strong deterrent against corrupt practices,” the he asserted.

He further informed that during the same period, the VB had filed 12 charge sheets in various courts and registered 20 criminal cases involving 34 accused, including 18 government employees. Additionally, one vigilance enquiry was initiated to thoroughly probe allegations of corruption in a specific case.

Highlighting the Bureau’s legal successes, he said three bribery cases contested by the VB in different courts concluded with convictions. The courts handed down imprisonment terms ranging from four to five years, along with fines between Rs. 10,000 and Rs. 35,000.

The spokesperson reiterated the Bureau’s unwavering determination to cleanse the system of all forms of corruption and urged citizens to play an active role in this mission. People are encouraged to report incidents of bribery or corruption directly through the Chief Minister’s Anti-Corruption Action Line by lodging complaints via WhatsApp at 95012-00200.

“This initiative empowers the public to become active stakeholders in ensuring transparency, accountability, and integrity in governance,” he added.