Osmania University engineer held by ACB for demanding bribe linked to Rs 7.37 lakh bills

Hyderabad: Telangana Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) officials on Tuesday caught Rakonda Srinivasulu, Deputy Executive Engineer of the Building Division at Osmania University campus, Tarnaka, while accepting a bribe.

Demanded money for clearing bills

As per ACB, Srinivasulu asked for a bribe in connection with the clearance of official bills related to renovation works.

According to ACB officials, the accused engineer allegedly demanded a bribe of Rs 11,000 from a contractor for releasing pending bills amounting to Rs 7,37,034.

The bills pertained to renovation works executed by the complainant within the Osmania University campus.

Caught while accepting bribe

ACB officials laid a trap and caught Srinivasulu red-handed while accepting Rs 6,000 from the complainant. Investigators said he had already accepted Rs 5,000 earlier, completing the demanded amount.

Assurance of smooth work in future in return for a bribe

The bribe was allegedly asked not only for clearing the pending bills but also for assuring the contractor that no hurdles would be created in future contract works at the university.

A case has been registered against the accused under relevant provisions of the Prevention of Corruption Act, and further investigation is underway.

ACB appeals to citizens

The ACB urged the public to report any instance of bribery demands by government officials. Citizens can contact the bureau through the toll-free number 1064 or via WhatsApp at 9440446106.