Vigilance Bureau arrests Rosera DCLR in bribery case

Patna, Aug 27 (IANS) In a major anti-corruption operation on Thursday, the Vigilance Investigation Bureau arrested Kanchan Kumari Jha, Deputy Collector Land Reforms (DCLR) of Rosera in Samastipur district, allegedly while accepting a Rs 2 lakh bribe to settle a land dispute.

The operation was conducted at her government residence in Rosera.

According to the allegations, a land dispute involving Manoj Kumar Mahto of Vibhutipur was pending before the DCLR.

Jha allegedly demanded Rs 2 lakh in cash and a washing machine in exchange for resolving the matter in the complainant’s favour.

After receiving the complaint, the Vigilance Department reportedly verified the allegations before conducting the trap operation.

At around 9 a.m. on Thursday, the complainant accompanied Vigilance officials to the DCLR’s residence, where Jha was allegedly caught accepting the Rs 2 lakh.

Following the arrest, Vigilance officials secured the government residence and conducted an extensive search of the premises.

Documents, cupboards and other materials were examined as part of the investigation.

Reports also indicated that approximately Rs 13 lakh in cash was recovered during the search.

However, this recovery remains subject to official confirmation by the Vigilance Department.

Officials are examining the source of the cash and other documents recovered from the residence.

Rosera police personnel were also present outside the premises while the Vigilance team continued its search and documentation.

A crowd gathered outside the residence after news of the operation spread, but the area was secured to protect the investigation and evidence.

Kanchan Kumari Jha, originally from Madhubani district, has served as Rosera DCLR for around one-and-a- half years.

The DCLR plays an important role in Bihar’s revenue administration, particularly in hearing land-related disputes and appeals.

Her arrest over an alleged bribe demand has caused a stir among administrative circles in Samastipur.

The Vigilance Department is continuing its investigation into the alleged bribery transaction, the cash reportedly recovered during the search and other documents found at the official residence.

–IANS

ajk/rad