Srinagar 23 August :- The Special Judge Anti-Corruption Court Anantnag, Masarat Roohi, delivered a significant judgment in a long-pending corruption case, convicting Habibullah Kumar, then serving as Junior Assistant in the Block Development Office, Larkipora. The case, registered under FIR No. 25/2009, was investigated by the then Vigilance Organization Kashmir (now Anti-Corruption Bureau) under Sections 5(1)(d) read with 5(2) of the J&K Prevention of Corruption Act, Svt. 2006 and Section 161 RPC.
The case originated from a written complaint. The complainant stated that he, along with five other helpers posted in the BDO Office Larkipora, had been granted in-situ promotion with effect from 1st November 2008. When he approached the accused, who was then Incharge of Establishment, for the preparation of arrears bills, the accused demanded a bribe of ₹1,800 for processing the same.Upon receiving the complaint, a trap was laid by the Vigilance Organization, during which the accused was caught red-handed while demanding and accepting the bribe amount from the complainant.
After completion of the investigation, a chargesheet was filed before the Court on 17th April 2010 for judicial determination. The trial concluded with the conviction of the accused on 21st August 2025.The Hon’ble Court sentenced the accused to undergo simple imprisonment for a period of two years along with a fine of ₹21,000.
In case of default in payment of the fine, the accused will further undergo simple imprisonment for six months. This conviction stands as a testament to the Anti-Corruption Bureau’s unwavering commitment to fighting corruption and promoting integrity in public administration. The Bureau reiterates its resolve to bring to justice all those who misuse public office for personal gain.
