Chatra: The deputy commissioner of Chatra, Ramesh Gholap, on Saturday lodged an FIR against revenue sub-inspector Narayan Jha on bribe charge and recommended disciplinary action against former Pratappur circle officer Nityanand Das for alleged misconduct and negligence and letting the illegal activity happen under his watch, sending a strong message against violations of the Jharkhand Government Servant Conduct Rules - 2001.
The action stems from a viral social media video from August, purportedly showing Jha accepting a bribe for land mutation in Pratappur zone. Following the video's circulation, Gholap immediately ordered an investigation led by then sub-divisional officer Chatra, Surendra Oraon.
When Oraon visited Jha's official residence for questioning, the latter admitted that the money transaction took place at his official residence. The inquiry also revealed that Jha was not the authorised revenue sub-inspector for the area where the land in question was located.
Oraon's report highlighted potential involvement of other officials, noting that such illegal activities couldn't have occurred without broader participation. Based on these findings, authorities filed an FIR against Jha under relevant sections, and the DC approved departmental action against Das.
Gholap said, "After receiving information about the money transaction video involving Jha, we promptly formed a probe team under SDO Surendra Oraon. Jha's confession led to the FIR, but the investigation suggested more officials were likely involved."
The investigation uncovered evidence of indiscipline and work negligence by Das, prompting the DC's recommendation for disciplinary action. Gholap emphasized that his administration would maintain zero tolerance for corruption, stating, "If any type of complaint is received from any block, the officers and employees involved will not be spared."