ACB traps and arrests Dr Bilquees Ara Siddiqui, Scientist-B, Srinagar for demanding and accepting bribe of ₹5,000

In a significant development, the Anti Corruption Bureau (ACB) in Srinagar received a written complaint against Dr. Bilquees Ara Siddiqui, a Scientist-B employed in the State Pollution Control Board. The complaint alleged that Dr. Bilquees had demanded a bribe for the issuance of ‘Consent To Operate’ (CTO) for a bakery unit situated at the Industrial Estate in Khunmoh.

According to the complainant, who had applied for the CTO in November 2023, his application was pending with Dr. Bilquees. Frustrated by the unnecessary delays, the complainant visited the Pollution Control Board office on the 6th of this month and requested Dr. Bilquees to expedite the processing of his case. Shockingly, the public servant allegedly demanded ₹20,000 as a bribe for the issuance of the CTO. After negotiation, the amount was allegedly settled at ₹5,000.

>> Kashmir University B.Ed. Selection List 2024 Released, Download PDFs

Choosing not to succumb to corruption, the complainant decided to approach the Anti Corruption Bureau and file a formal complaint against Dr. Bilquees Ara Siddiqui. Subsequently, Case FIR No. 02/2024 under Section 7 of the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988, was registered with the Police Station ACB Srinagar, and an investigation was initiated.

In a swift response to the complaint, the Anti Corruption Bureau constituted a trap team. The team successfully laid a trap, catching Dr. Bilquees Ara Siddiqui red-handed while demanding and accepting the bribe amount of ₹5,000 from the complainant. The money was recovered from the accused on the spot.

Dr. Bilquees Ara Siddiqui, daughter of Ghulam Nabi, residing in Sarnal (Gulshan Abad) Anantnag, has been identified as the accused public servant in this case. She holds the position of Scientist-B in the Pollution Control Board.

The investigation into the matter is ongoing, and further legal action will be taken based on the findings. This incident highlights the commitment of the Anti Corruption Bureau to curb corruption and uphold the principles of transparency and accountability in public service.

Citizens are encouraged to report instances of corruption, and the Anti Corruption Bureau reassures the public of its dedication to ensuring justice and fairness in the pursuit of a corruption-free society.