ACB Chief Dr. A.S. Chawla warns corrupt officials of strict action 26 accused sentenced to rigorous imprisonment in 21 cases

Chandigarh, 23 October (H.S.): The Haryana State Vigilance and Anti-Corruption Bureau (SV&ACB) has achieved a significant milestone by registering 171 trap cases as of October 21, 2026, surpassing its previous 10-year record of 170 cases recorded in 2022.

Under the leadership of Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini, the Bureau has intensified its anti-corruption operations as part of the state government's zero-tolerance policy. ACB Chief Dr. A.S. Chawla issued a stern warning to government officers and employees involved in bribery and harassment of citizens.

He stated that officials who deliberately delay legitimate public work, demand illegal payments or misuse their authority would face strict legal action.

“Government positions are meant to serve the public, not to intimidate citizens or demand bribes,” Chawla emphasised.

He added that corrupt officials were under surveillance and no individual involved in corruption would be spared.

According to official figures, the Bureau registered 191 criminal cases between January 1 and September 30, 2026.

Of these, 155 were trap cases involving 172 accused caught red-handed while allegedly accepting bribes. Those apprehended included 16 gazetted officers, 131 non-gazetted employees and 25 private individuals.

Cases were registered under relevant provisions of the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988.

During the same period, the Bureau initiated 88 new inquiries. According to figures available as of September 15, 61 inquiries had been completed.

Departmental action was recommended against 74 gazetted officers and 20 non-gazetted employees following 16 inquiries.

Additionally, criminal proceedings were recommended against 63 individuals following 10 inquiries.

In another significant achievement, 26 accused, including 23 government officers or employees and three private individuals, were sentenced to rigorous imprisonment in 21 corruption cases between January and September.

Dr. Chawla said the Bureau remained committed to maintaining transparency, accountability and integrity in public administration.

He urged citizens to report bribery demands through the Satark Haryana app, assuring that complaints would be examined and appropriate legal action taken. The Bureau stated that its strengthened complaint-to-action mechanism would continue supporting Haryana's fight against corruption.

Hindusthan Samachar / GURSHARAN SINGH